
Class 

Copyriglit}!^ 



COF^RICHT DEPOSm 



The Crv of Vashti 

and 

Other Verses 



N. A. B. Evans 

7\umor of "The Caliph's Secret," "The noonllght 

Sonata," "In Various Hoods," "Nvmphs, 

Nixies, and Naiads," etc. 




0. P. PUTNAH'S SONS 

New York and Loadon 

Ubc Iftnickcrbocfter ipress 

1922 






Copyright, 1922 

by 
M. A. B. Evans 



Made in the United States of America 



NOV 25 IS22 



^"t^S 




r* 



C1AG92039 



ALL THE FRIENDS 

that care for me 

This Book Is Affectionately Dedicated 



CONTENTS 

PAGE 

The Cry of Vashti 3 

The Hills 8 

Forest Mysteries 9 

Metempsychosis ii 

The Silver Star 12 

Cloud Play 15 

The Wood Nymph 16 

The Wind and the Rose 17 

The Light 18 

Daphne to Apollo 19 

Wishing-Weills 21 

Footsteps on the Stairs 22 

The Hidden Hand 23 

Entry of Lucretia Borgia into Ferrara 28 

The Great Opportunity 30 

Altars 31 

April 32 

Upward ;^;^ 

Enjoyment 34 

The Goddess 35 

Life and Song 36 

V 



vi Contents 

PAGE 

The Snow Mantle 38 

The Great Riddle 39 

War Memories 40 

Dolce Far Niente 41 

Christmas Bells 42 

Autumn Scherzo 43 

With Cap and Bells 44 

The Temple 46 

Broken Clay 49 

Sleep 50 

Requital 51 

Aladdin's Choice 52 

Hyssop 54 

The Flash 55 

Benedicite 56 

The Osier Basket 57 

The Field of the Cloth of Gold 62 

Mother 63 

A Lasting Peace 64 

The Rosebush 65 

Sempiternal 67 

Easter Lilies 68 

The Angel's Touch 69 

The Shield and Buckler 70 

A Miracle 71 

Following the Star 73 

Echoes 74 



Contents vii 

PAGE 

Waters of Strife 75 

Over the Hills and Far Away T7 

Butterflies 78 

The Pity of It! 79 

From the Other Side 80 

The Link 81 

The Guest 82 

Visions of the Future 84 

Czar Nicholas II 85 

In Fiction ^d 

The Heart of Life 87 

"Never Again!" 88 

Spinners and Knitters 89 

To Fire 91 

America's Music 92 

Christmas Stars 94 

Chopin's Unwritten Music 95 

The Legend of Israfel 96 

Our Nation 98 

The Watchword 99 

Easter . . \ . . . ^ 100 

Resurrexit lOI 

Stratford-on-Avon 102 

War Clouds 104 

A Spring Idyl 105 

East and West 106 

Courage . . . , , , 107 



viii Contents 

PAGE 

Retrospection io8 

The Old Clock 109 

A Lilac Glimpse iii 

Spring's Promise 112 

The Vision 113 

Found 114 

Swifter than the Wind 115 

As Sings the Wind 116 

To an Aztec God 119 

The Gypsy Trail 120 

Prophets 121 

The Fourfold Strand 122 

John the Baptist 123 

The Secret of the Pines 124 

The Pool of Bethesda 125 

And Pilate Washed His Hands 126 

To the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor . . 128 

The Isle of Day 129 

A Span 130 

BALLADES, RONDEAUX, ETC. 

Ballade of Friar Tuck 133 

Vernal Magic 135 

Bibliofacture 137 

Ballade of Adventure 139 

The Music of America 141 

Ballade of Courage 143 



Contents ix 

PAGB 

The Days Go By 145 

The Call of the Pixies 146 

The DECisroN 147 

In Many Keys 148 

Along the Path 149 

Life's Chances 150 

In Feudal Times 151 

The Morning Sky 152 

The Mayflower 153 

A Smile 154 

The Sibyl 155 

Amid the Reeds 156 

Apples 157 

The Bells of Time 158 

Enmeshed 159 

As Shines the Sun 160 

Winter Music 161 

Inspiration 162 

October Leaves 163 

How Goes the Time? 164 

Across the Marne 165 

From the Trenches i65 

The Leader jg^ 

The Bridge of Dreams 168 

Saint Valentine j5q 

Pegasus j^q 

Perseus to Andromeda 171 



X Contents 

PAGE 

Laudamus 173 

The Vexed Question 173 

Promises Fulfilled 174 

The Race 175 

Just Suppose 177 

The Lilt of the Paradise Bird 179 

Dante 180 

Drake, and the Ransom of San Domingo 181 

When Apollo Passes 183 



The Cry of Vashti 

and 

Other Verses 



THE CRY OF VASHTI. 

THE mellow light gleamed over Shushan's hall, 
Where sat Ahasuerus and his friends 
Who banqueted in state, surpassing all 

That ever heretofore had served his ends. 
The music rang ; the wine flowed fast and free ; 

The Eastern perfumes filled the heavy air; 
The dancers, with unwonted liberty, 

Sought favor of the monarch debonair. 
With harps and cymbals flowing robes kept time, 

While white feet shone like snow on Hermon's hill. 
The King looked gayly at the merry mime. 

And bade them still continue, at his will. 
The hours flew on, while yet they danced and sang. 

At last, the King grew weary of the scene; 
And as the merry shouts and laughter rang, 

He rose, and sent a message to the Queen, 
To come, — at once, — and show th' attending throng 

Her own great beauty, far transcending aught 
That any dancing girl, or child of song 

Could show, however fair, or ably taught. 



4 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

Then out spake Vashti : "Is it thus you send, 

great Ahasuerus, to your Queen? 
Would you have me my queenly pride unbend, 

And so my noble ancestry demean ? 
I am the daughter of a mighty King; 

With power as great as yours, if not outspread 
So far. No dancing girl am I, to swing 

Her jeweled scarf above her foolish head, 
With hope to win a fortune by her smile. 

1 am the Queen of Persia! By what right 
Am I thus called, my husband to beguile? 

I will not go, unless by force and might. 
I will invoke the laws of mine own land; 

And not be shamed before this ribald host. 
And if in judgment I am called to stand, 

I will be heard. My cause shall not be lost. 
It is not meet a Queen should thus comport 

Herself. Within this palace is my home, 
And here I take my stand, within this court. 

Go, tell the mighty King, I will not come!" 



The Cry of Vashti 5 

Wroth was the monarch, when this answer came. 

The Persian and the Median lords, amazed, 
Cried out; lest all their wives should do the same, — 

A Queen's example is so surely praised. 
And followed. Thus would discipline be gone. 

The just commands of husbands put aside, 
Each wife a law unto herself alone, — 

It was an insult to all lordly pride. 
To Vashti then the King sent Magian seers, 

To summon her once more ; or else foretell 
Her downfall, working on her pride and fears, 

Lest rival Queen should be beloved as well 
As she, who now in beauteous form and face 

Held sway o'er mightiest of monarchs known. 
Was this worth while, to lose the foremost place 

In all of Persia, which was now her own? 
They pleaded, too, the force of what she did, 

The bad example set to other wives. 
Who would refuse to come when they were bid, 

And so upset full many peaceful lives. 



6 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

"O mighty seers," quoth Vashti : "well ye know 

It is not right, that v/hich the King doth ask. 
There is a higher law than ye can show ; 

And this shall be my most unwelcome task, 
Still to uphold the law of modesty, 

A rule of binding force for womankind. 
And which the King would surely justify. 

If he were not by wine and pride made blind. 
I love my Lord the King, much better far 

Than all his wide-flung power, or kingly state. 
For him my highest wishes always are. 

That he may e'er continue strong and great. 
But he, too, must abide by that same law. 

The force of right, in all that he commands. 
He knoweth well that he should now withdraw 

That order which he sent me by your hands. 
Go, tell him that I make a strong appeal 

To that Ahasuerus whom I love, 
And not the King, whose wisdom wine can steal. 

Alas! I fear no words his soul will move. 



The Cry of Vashti 7 

"O King ! O husband ! Lord of all my heart ! 

You ne'er can know what this to me must cost. 
I see fair Esther take my place and part, 

A Jewish maiden take what I have lost. 
Your love she has, the greatest gift of all; 

Ah! could I only this alone retain, 
I would not grieve, or mourn for any fall 

From state, since happy would I still remain. 
Ah! deeper in the future do I see, — 

Conditions far beyond our thought or ken, 
When women need no longer puppets be. 

But stand in honor, in the sight of men ; 
Where laws of truth and justice shall prevail, 

And equity shall flourish in the land; 
Where lying courts and kings shall not avail 

To turn the truth aside with lordly hand. 
I thank you, Magian seers, for this brief glance 

Across the future years; the world will ring 
With hope for womankind ; but this great chance 

Does naught for me. Alas! my Love! my King!" 



THE HILLS. 

LIFT up your eyes to the Hills of Thought, 
From the troubled vales below. 
Let the winds of hope, from thither brought, 
Through your cares and misfortunes blow. 

For never a trouble is quite so bad, 
As it seems when too closely viewed; 

And never a sorrow is quite so sad, 
With the breath of the Hills imbued. 

And naught is worse than to sit and moan. 

Look up ! Look up from life's ills ! 
For strength will come, in a way unknown, — 

Lift up your eyes to the Hills ! 



FOREST MYSTERIES. 

THE winds that blow from Heaven refresh, renew, 
And vivify the world ; while in the light 
Of sun and moon and stars, the fragrant dew, 

The rains, the heat, that pulsing through both night 
And day, develop powers beyond all thought 

Of man, hold, in the forest, mighty sway. 
Here, to perfection, are the forces brought 

That move the world; and in their strength of play, 
They reach far out to universal space. 

And touch the springs of that Creative Power 
Which first breathed o'er the empty vacant face 

Of silent worlds, and in the darksome hour. 
While yet unformed and nebulous, this Earth 

Hung in the misty realms of nothingness. 
Sent forth the wondrous force that gave it birth, 

And life, and strength, and growth, and fruitfulness. 

And as from out the forest life come all 

The thousand voices that pervade the world, 
So do the echoes, as they softly fall. 

Seem from the heart of mighty chaos hurled. 
The voice of love, the voice of bitter hate, 

The crooning tones of mothers' lullabies, 
Proclaim the universal power of Fate, 

The human note in all the forest cries. 



10 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

Each tree, within its branches, waves afar 

The destinies of many earthly lives, 
Blown by the winds of Heaven, to make or mar, 

While through it all the breath of hope survives. 
Who knows what spirits lurk in forest trees? 

We feel their kinship always, when we find 
Ourselves within the magic force of these, 

And in the woods, discover our own kind. 

Unseen, unknown, great forces seem to move. 

The petty things of earth all slip away, — 
The universal spirit thus to prove, 

Enwrapping all within its lofty sway. 
The ages-old religions merge in one, 

Which evermore will stand the test of time, 
The power which gives precedence unto none. 

The Love which over all still rules sublime. 
In dreaming silence, comes the glancing light. 

Among the thickly spreading branches high. 
And gazing upward, far past human sight, 

The very soul of life beams from the sky. 
Ah ! nowhere is the heart of life revealed 

As in the forest depths. For good or ill, 
Therein strange, forceful secrets are concealed, 

And glimpses of the great Almighty Will. 



METEMPSYCHOSIS. 

The soul of Music, wandering 
Within a misty wood, 
Was caught, and held, and made to sing, 
While ev'ry bird, upon the wing, 
Gave pause to listen, and to bring 
An echo, if it could. 

The soul of Music passed within 
Those hundred thousand birds, 

That through the air so lightly spin, 

With melodies that quickly win 

All poetry, to music kin, 

The songs that need no words. 



II 



THE SILVER STAR. 

A SILVER star across the misty sky, 
In shining splendor softly drifted down, 
And brought a touch of glory from on high, 
The fruitful, happy years of life to crown. 

Its rays, in forceful silence from above, 

Gave power to many weary, drooping hearts ; 

In comradeship, humanity, and love, 
Illumining all nature, with its darts. 

Bestowing energy unknown before. 

Reviving hopes that long ago seemed dead, 

And lighting up the tomes of ancient lore 
With meaning fresh, across their pages shed. 

Transforming old opinions into new. 
Dissolving useless fancies of the past. 

Cementing strongly bonds of friendship true, 

That through the paths of life and death will last. 

Believing always of mankind the best. 

And bringing out the truth, wherever found ; 

The worth of life and thought the only test, 
Within this light of sympathy profound. 

12 



The Silver Star 13 

Who best can serve the actions of the hour? 

Who has the most abihty to plan 
For all the highest good, with greatest power ? 

These are the questions, since this light began. 

In striving thus to benefit the world, 

The new philosophy of life is shown; 
And on a thousand banners now unfurled 

The creed of "Thought for Others" is made known. 

And in this creed, the mighty hope of peace 

Throughout the world most justly finds a place; 

That wars and tumults may be made to cease, 
And reason govern all the human race. 



But for the coming of this "Peace on Earth" 

The song "Good-will towards Men" must also ring. 

l^'o lasting hope of peace can e'er have birth, 
Until the world this other song can sing. 

To wish for others that which they desire, 
Provided this accords with those demands 

Of Justice, which should all the world inspire, 
And which, in truth, each person understands. 

For truly, there is mighty power in Right, 
No stronger force exists, of all we know. 

The fate of man would be as black as night, 
If Right should count as nothing here below. 



14 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

Inherent in the heart and mind and soul, 

Both law and kindness based upon this thought, 

Life is not viewed, in either part, or whole, 
Without the certainty which thus is brought. 

So, gazing into future years to come, 
The promise of a hopeful light shines forth, 

A spirit kind, though keen, adventuresome. 

And fearless, in all thoughts or deeds of worth. 

New ways of helping all of those in need. 

With time, or strength, or friendly hand to give, 

Will daily enter into this high creed, 

And make the world a better place to live. 



Still shining onward, ever and afar. 
In greater glory, and in stronger might, 

Mankind rejoicing, thus the silver star 

Shall give, with added years, life's golden light! 



^ 



CLOUD PLAY. 

FOREVER with the fleecy clouds 
The winds delight to play. 
They drive them on, in merry crowds, 
Throughout the livelong day. 

But sometimes, in a serried row 
These form themselves, and try 

To brave the winds that madly blow 
Across the broad blue sky. 

They wheel, and whirl, and twist about. 

They dance in swift delight; 
They wait to hear the winds' deep shout, 

Then scurry out of sight. 

They form new lines; they waver, swing, 

And lightly bend and sway, 
Like merry birds upon the wing, — 

For all things love to play ! 



15 



THE WOOD NYMPH. 

MY love is like a woodland sprite 
The forest trees among. 
For her, with springtime glow alight, 
The world is ever young. 

For her, the birds in branching boughs 

Their sweetest songs evoke. 
Each friendly fern her sway allows; 

She has a heart of oak. 

She staunchly stands, in rain or shine; 

Though like a willow bends 
Her swaying form, with grace divine. 

As swift her way she wends. 

So light her step, the wildwood flowers 

Scarce feel her dainty tread; 
But proudly touched, through sun and showers, 

Each blossom lifts its head. 

Her charm is felt by all around, 

This lovely woodland elf ; 
And none just like her can be found, 

Because she is — herself ! 

i6 



THE WIND AND THE ROSE. 

SAID the Rose: "I am sorry for you, Mr. Wind; 
You go whirling along through this world 
In a terrible way. You must greatly have sinned, 
Through the universe thus to be hurled. 

"You have never a moment to rest and be still; 

You must always be rushing about. 
Though sometimes you whisper, you mostly are shrill, 

And often you lustily shout. 

"I am sorry for you that so sad is your fate!" 
But the Wind laughed, and whistled around. 

And when she again would have spoken, — too late ! 
He had scattered her leaves on the ground. 

Now there is no moral, no wherefore or why, 

To this little story told here; 
For forces are forces, as none can deny, 

And roses — will blossom next year. 



17 



THE LIGHT. 

THE starlight gleam of Christmas night, 
Reflected here below, 
A lantern is, the way of right, 
The path of life to show. 

Illumined by its brilliant rays, 

The old world shines anew. 
Forgotten are all saddened days ; 

This light brings joy to view. 

And dearer to each human heart. 

The worth of life to prove, 
These rays a fresher glow impart 

To friendship, truth, and love. 



i8 



DAPHNE TO APOLLO. 

FROM safe retreat within my laurel tree, 
I fain would speak, Apollo, unto thee, 
And tell thee something which perchance will change 
Thy thought of me, as being wild or strange. 

1 loved thee, — ^ah! indeed I speak the truth. 
But gay and fanciful are dreams of youth, 
And I had visions of advantage vast, 
With life and joy which should forever last. 

For I desired the freedom of an elf, 
Bound by no rules, but living for myself. 
I wished to rove at will the wide world o'er. 
And find each day more wondrous than before. 

So when thou wouldst have held me in thine arm, 
Thou didst affright me; and in wild alarm, 
I sought the shelter of a faithful friend. 
And as a laurel tree, my life I spend. 

I wave my branches, and the breezes come 
To bear me where I will, far far from home; 
And often I slip out, and wander forth, 
To travel east and west, and south and north. 

19 



20 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

While in the daytime, with the sunHght crowned, 
My feet well planted on the friendly ground, 
I welcome birds and bees, that passing by. 
Bring news of thee. Ah ! happy then am I ! 

Sweet blossoms give to me their fragrance fair, 

To send thee, on the silent, waiting air. 

I think of thee, in all thy glory bright. 

But know that this, for me, is best and right. 

Thou wouldst have tired of Daphne. This I know, 

great Apollo. Thus, far better so ! 

1 lead my own sweet life. Canst thou not see 
A maiden's wish to be herself, and freef 



WISHING- WELLS. 

WHERE may wishing-wells be found? 
Search the country all around, 
Forest glade or mountain height, 
In the daytime or the night, 
'Neath a bending willow tree. 
Or upon a grassy lea. 

Never will you find them there 
Though you wander ev'rywhere. 
Only where kind thoughts abide. 
They find shelter still to hide, — 
Living wells, — though far apart, 
In the truly friendly heart. 



21 



FOOTSTEPS ON THE STAIRS. 

HAVE you not listened, in the night, 
And heard a creaking, unawares, 
As if a human footstep might 
Be coming up the ancient stairs? 

Have you not felt a thrill of fear, 

Half expectation, half a pain. 
Lest presently, upon your ear, 

Should fall once more that sound, made plain ? 

Ah! half remembered, half forgot. 

The footsteps of our loved ones gone! 

For who can say that these are not 
Within the portals of the dawn? 



22 



THE HIDDEN HAND. 

IN Florence, years ago, long spent, 
Lorenzo, the Magnificent, 
Ruled o'er the people ; and he saw- 
That each and all obeyed his law. 
For he was powerful and wise, 
And none could take him by surprise. 

Among his courtiers, was a man 

Much gifted in the arts, to plan 

A pageant, bridge, or citadel, 

A play, a portico, or well; 

With voice that boldly forth could ring, 

Whenever he would speak, or sing. 

Right well Lorenzo loved the lad, 
Who oft his burdened heart made glad. 
And helped him with the cares of state, 
Yet never seemed importunate; 
Contented with his modest pelf, 
He asked but little for himself. 

But when Lorenzo walked one day 
Within his garden, far away, 
Beneath the spreading trees, he spied 
Young Niccolo, and close beside 
Lorenzo's cousin, Jacqueline ! 
"Now what did this young rascal mean? 

23 



24 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

"Did he not know his proper place? 
How dared he Jacqueline embrace?" 
Unconscious of the fateful stare, 
The lovers stood, quite unaware 
Of what their turning eyes would find, 
A cruel fate, severe, unkind. 

"Since duty, girl, you do not know. 
Straight to a convent you shall go. 
While you, Signor, are banished quite. 
E'en though I know that in despite. 
You will not finish that new tower, 
So grandly rising, hour by hour. 

"You hear my words ; and now begone ! 
Nor let me look your eyes upon ! 
You have abused my confidence, 
And showed, besides, a lack of sense 
Which never could I quite forgive. 
Ah ! you are lucky, e'en to liveT 

The lovers heard, with bated breath. 
Well knowing that the doom of death 
Might still upon them be pronounced. 
They ne'er their plighted vows renounced, 
But quickly planned, at close of day. 
To meet once more, and steal away. 



The Hidden Hand 25 

Years passed. From Rome and Naples came 
Accounts of Niccolo's great fame; 
That to his work he gave a touch 
Of grace, which no one else so much 
As rivaled. Greatly in demand, 
He traveled far, from land to land. 

And with him always went his wife, 

Far dearer to him than his life. 

She was the inspiration strong 

That winged his thoughts and hopes along. 

Before her wondrous beauty, bowed. 

Where'er she went, the waiting crowd. 

Yet did they both for Florence long, 
That home of art, and craft, and song; 
Until at last, disguised, they dared 
To enter, and to see how fared 
The city that they found so dear. 
For sight of which they banished fear. 

Lorenzo still was ruling o'er 
The people, proudly, as before. 
So quietly they found a place. 
Where none would notice either face 
As having been, in former time, 
Conspicuous in prose or rhyme. 



26 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

They asked about the lofty tower 
Which once Lorenzo, in his power, 
Told Niccolo to build. Alas ! 
The plans destroyed, it came to pass 
That no one with sufficient wit 
Had yet been found, to finish it. 

New plans were offered, now and then, 
But quickly cast aside again. 
For none, though viewed with eager hope, 
Could match the old ones, in their scope. 
At last, the trick of circumstance 
Now gave to Niccolo his chance. 

His plans were sent, — approved as good. 
But shrewd Lorenzo understood 
At once who sent them, recognized 
The hidden hand, although disguised. 
And offered pardon to the man 
Who could so ably work and plan. 

False, false the promise! When he came, 
Lorenzo hailed him by his name. 
And quickly summoned lancers three, 
To take the man in custody. 
But Niccolo leaped swift aside, 
And to Lorenzo thus replied: 



The Hidden Hand 27 

"I saw your treachery before 
I left my home to reach your door. 
Ten trusty friends of mine without 
Will rescue me, beyond a doubt. 
And ne'er by any plans of mine 
Shall greater glory o'er you shine." 

So saying, on the fire near by, 

Within a brazier flaming high, 

He threw the plans; and striding forth. 

He proved what friendship true is worth. 

In rushed the ten, with clash of steel, 

Which served his exit to conceal. 

He swiftly fled away to Rome, 

And there henceforth he made his home. 

Not even when Lorenzo died, 

Did he return; but satisfied 

With that which he had done before, 

He never entered Florence more. 

As for the tower, it ne'er was built. 
Around it seemed to hang the guilt 
Of treachery, and pride, and woe. 
Gone its foundations, long ago ! 
Men said these went by no command, 
But fell, accursed, by hidden hand! 



ENTRY OF LUCRETIA BORGIA 
INTO FERRARA. 

(Feb. 2. 1502) 

WITH pomp and majesty she came, — 
Her jewels rich and rare, 
Her gorgeous gowns, her hated name, 
Her shining golden hair. 

Men cheered, but wondered, as she passed ; 

Some dared to whisper low. 
The hands of Fate were moving fast, — 

Came she as friend or foe? 

All honor did the ducal court 

Pay this unwelcome bride. 
Whose life and fortune seemed the sport 

Of evil chance and pride. 

But now, at last, in happy scenes, 

New life she could begin, — 
Let good works silence, by their means, 

The tales of crime and sin. 

28 



Entry of Lucretia Borgia into Ferrara 29 

Alas! she was so young, so young! 

In sorrow for her fate 
She was not left unknown, unsung. 

Although her praise came late. 

A vision of the time to come 

Shone forth upon her brow; 
And as she entered her new home, 

So do we see her now. 

A smile upon her winsome face, 

Yet majesty and power, — 
This was the scene naught can displace, 
Lucretia Borgia's hour ! 



THE GREAT OPPORTUNITY. 

AS flow the rivers to the sea, 
In never-ending streams, 
So time, to vast eternity, 

Bears all our hopes and dreams. 

And in the rivers* constant flow, 

Security we find 
For all our troubles here below, 

The rocks we left behind; 

The shallows that we justly feared, 

The eddies swift and deep, 
The undercurrents, as we neared 

The shores where dangers sleep. 

Yet, through time's haste, we never win 

The chance to do and be 
All that we would, — until within 

That sea, Eternity. 



30 



ALTARS. 

HOW many altars do we raise, 
Throughout the passing years ! 
In youth, we strength and beauty praise, 
And laughter, free from tears. 

Success, in later life, our goal, 
And power and riches, too; 

Perhaps in strife beyond control, 
We spend our forces true. 

And only when, with quiet mind, 
Such altars made and done, 

We lift our waiting eyes, we find 
The all-embracing One. 



31 



APRIL. 

FICKLE? Yes, of course she is; 
No one this denies, — 
Yet each lover calls her his. 
Smiles, and tears, and sighs ! 

April, to herself most true. 
Sets th' whole world aglow. 

Doubtless this the reason, too, 
Why we love her so! 



32 



UPWARD. 

FROM the dark sodden earth come the blossoms 
of spring; 
A promise of happiness truly they bear. 
From the chrysalis, butterflies, gorgeous of wing, 
Lightly flutter along, through the realms of the air. 

From the darkness of sorrow comes ever the light, 
Showing clearer the pathway of life, and its goal; 

While swift floating upward, on pinions so bright, 
The butterfly wings of the heart and the soul. 



33 



ENJOYMENT. 

WHATEVER good things come, in life, 
Three times we should enjoy each one. 
Anticipation is the first; 
Next consummation follows on, — 
Then retrospection gives the chance 
To live again the pleasures gone. 



34 



THE GODDESS. 

WHEN Dian's bow is in the sky, 
And tipped with lightning from on high, 
The goddess, feeling quite secure, 
Full often walks this earth, demure 
And cool, as in the days gone by. 

But hidden by a passing cloud. 
The bow no longer shows her proud 

And haughty, though she knows her power 
Is felt, e'en through the darkest hour, 
And so, she waits, among the crowd. 

How can one find in what disguise 

She still is seen by mortal eyes? 

The moon each lover staunch and true 
Shows fair Diana's face in — you! 

You are his goddess, bright — ^and wise! 



35 



LIFE AND SONG. 

THE years go by, 
And we descry 
In life a startling change; 
That which, in youth. 
Seemed easy truth, 

Now wears an aspect strange. 

The sky and sun, 
The streams that run. 

The rushing wind and rain, 
Ourselves, our thought, 
Our world, whence brought. 

All seemed both clear and plain. 

But wonders grew. 
The more we knew 

The less we seemed to know. 
For, like a light. 
With greater might 

More darkness it can show. 

Or as a charm 
That works no harm. 

Each year an added chime 
Shows us how far 
Adown we are 

The corridors of time. 

36 



Life and Song 37 

Yet through the years, 
With all their fears, 

Their joys, their troubles sad. 
The voice of Hope, 
Howe'er we grope, 

Sings out, to make us glad. 

And Faith and Love, 
Where'er we move. 

Join in the chorus, too, 
To make of life. 
Through stress and strife, 

A chord of music true. 

And thus to live, 
We learn to give 

The best that in us lies; 
While all around. 
With joyous sound, 

Sweet melodies arise. 

Ah! life is sweet, 
And also fleet; 

But whether short or long, 
Oh, let us all, 
Whatever befall. 

Still greet it with a song ! 



THE SNOW MANTLE. 

MERRILY the earth is sleeping, 
Underneath the snow. 
All the plants their watch are keeping, 
Waiting time to grow. 

Quickly do the snowflakes cover 

Softly from our sight 
All the bulbs and seedlings over. 

With a mantle white. 

But the sleepy seeds are humming 

Gently in their dreams, 
Feeling all the drumming, thrumming, 

Coming sunlight beams. 

Though they wait a little longer. 

In their darkened room, 
Life, within them pulsing stronger, 

Soon bursts forth in bloom. 



38 



THE GREAT RIDDLE. 

WHO can know that minds, grown dim, 
E'er again shall glow? 
Who sees farther than the rim 
Of the world we know? 

Who can tell that brighter far 

Than all earthly light, 
May the mind, a brilliant star, 

Gleam beyond our sight? 

Questions, questions, evermore. 

Far past human ken! 
Yet we still search hidden lore, — 

How? and why? and when? 

Of the mysteries beyond. 

With their mighty scope. 
These thoughts bid us not despond. 

Love, and faith, and hope. 



39 



WAR MEMORIES. 
(A soldier speaks.) 

OUR thoughts are all too keen, — the dirt and grime, 
The awful shock of charging hosts, — the time 
When first one's keen-edged bayonet drew blood ! 
O God ! the horror, and the surging flood 
Within one's brain ! And then, — the lust to kill, 
To kill, and show no mercy ! Up the hill 
And through the rain of fire, still pushing on. 
With one desire, to see the conflict done ! 
The heaps of slain, alike one's friends and foes ! 
The ghastly horror, once the blood-lust goes ! 
The scenes in hospitals, — poor husks of men 
Just struggling back to life and hope, — and then 
The dark eclipse of all, — or else once more 
The dismal trench-life that one had before! 
Again the dirt and squalor of the scenes 
Of daily life! None knows just what this means 
Unless he has been there, and lived it all. 
And yet, if once again rang forth the call, 
For right and justice, gladly would one go. 
And fight again the tyrant and the foe. 
But since, with pride and honor, now at last 
Those dreadful days of battle times are past, 
Be merciful in questionings, and let 
The soldier, if he can, those days forget! 

40 



DOLCE FAR NIENTE. 
(three pictures.) 

THE brilliant clouds hang o*er the western sky. 
A lad and lassie, on their homeward way 
From school, go lightly, as they saunter by, — 
All lessons done, — now naught to do but play. 

With years gone by, — again the evening light 
Shines o'er the two, now man and woman grown. 

Forgotten are the daily toil and might 

Required; for now the joy of rest is shown. 

Still later years bring added comforts' ease; 

While books, and music, and the evening glow 
Of life, with sweet and happy fantasies, 

The worth of "dolce far niente" show. 



41 



CHRISTMAS BELLS. 

THE Christmas bells ring out each year, 
Upon the frosty air, 
Their messages of hope and cheer 
And joy beyond compare. 

Soft misty waves, like summer flowers 

With human kindness fraught. 
Sent fragrance upward, with the hours, 

Which in the bells were caught. 

There closely held, ere downward hurled. 

Deep love each echo tells. 
Sweet thoughts are scattered o'er the world, 

When ring the Christmas bells. 



42 



AUTUMN SCHERZO. 

DANCE, in the wind and the rain; 
Dance, all ye fallen old leaves. 
Springtime is coming again, — 
Never your spirits it grieves. 

Well do ye know that the earth 
With mighty forces is rife, 

Needing you for a new birth, — 
Dance, with the joy of new life! 



43 



WITH CAP AND BELLS. 

THE play was o'er. The darkened stage 
Was all in gloom, with ne'er a light 
To show where players' arts engage 

To cheer the world, and make it bright. 

The merriest of all the train, 

The one whose quip and jibe and jest 
Brought smiles from which none could refrain, 

Sat silent, in the dark, at rest. 

Once more, he had amused his world; 

Once more the laughter and applause 
Had followed each remark he hurled 

Across the stage, without a pause. 

"Original !" yes, what they said 

Was true at present. Would it last? 

With each performance, what he paid 
In energy, was going fast. 

And if it went, what then? what then? 

A newer idol ! Ne'er a word 
For him who had amused them when 

He had his strength, would then be heard. 

44 



With Cap and Bells 45 

Ah well! Ah well! a little while 
At least, he still could jest and play, 

And greet the world with mocking smile, 
And live his life, from day to day. 

Who knew what Fortune had in store? 

None could be sure of happiness. 
And if some had a little more 

Of wealth, perchance they missed success. 

So, smiling softly in the gloom, 

He scrambled to his feet again, 
And recking naught, whatever his doom. 

Went whistling homeward, in the rain. 



THE TEMPLE. 

THE temple's walls were builded well. 
From rock, and mine, and woodland dell, 
The spirits of the earth and air 
Combined to build this temple fair. 

O'er all, their witcheries they cast. 
With spells that should forever last; 
For buildings are but dull and dead 
If laid in fear, and hate, and dread. 

Ah, no ! with brightest hopes of joy 
And faith and hope, without alloy, 
Arose these walls, as day by day. 
They felt the master-builder's sway. 

Built for a glorious new career. 
To hearts of womankind most dear, 
The chance to give expression true 
For all that womankind could do. 

As o'er the earth the rising sun 
Sheds glowing light for ev'ry one, 
So from this temple kindly thought 
Went forth, and to the world was brought. 

46 



The Temple 47 

With deeper knowledge, greater power 
Each one can find, from hour to hour; 
And quickly, too, a common creed 
Of kindly thought, and word, and deed. 

The wish to give, and not to gain; 
Consideration clear and plain 
Of different ideas' weight, 
And varying opinions' fate. 

For people can not think the same 
In ev'rything. No thought of blame 
Attaches to a difference 
Of sane ideas' common sense. 

So, of the many lessons learned, 
This one of toleration, — spurned 
So many years by womankind, 
Proves now a mighty force to bind. 

And willingly, though sometimes slow, 
Appreciation's blossoms grow, 
And ev'ry year a deeper tie 
Binds all about, in unity. 

Desire to help the world along 
In peace or war, however strong, 
Is greatly aided, when the might 
Of many work up towards the light. 



48 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verse 3 

Much has been done, and still much more 
Will be accomplished than before. 
And ever, with a right good will, 
The temple's spirits guide us still. 

And now a gentle silver haze 
Hangs o'er the scenes of other days; 
Recalling much, and shining down 
On joyful work the years have shown. 

All honor to the brilliant minds 
That wove this mighty tie that binds, 
And built this magic temple well, 
Where high ideals always dwell. 

And as the years shall roll apace, 
And others come within the place, 
They, too, shall feel the spirits' call 
For love, and hope, and faith for all. 

As all good deeds, wherever found. 
On waves of ether ever sound, 
So what is built so splendidly 
Shall ring throughout eternity! 



BROKEN CLAY. 

T TPON the whirling wheel of life, 
^^ A sudden pausing in its play! 
A wiping out of joy and strife; 

And in their places, day by day, 
A racking pain, like twisting knife 

That glories in its hateful sway ! 
We feel, alas ! with sorrows rife. 

Just broken clay, — just broken clay! 



49 



SLEEP. 

OUR playmate through all of the night's darkest 
hours, 
Thou art sometimes elusive, and willfully coy; 
And yet thou canst chase, with thy magical powers, 
All the ills that in daytime our spirits annoy. 

Like a butterfly lighting on weary, worn eyes, 

We catch thee and hold thee, as though in a net, 

And often, perhaps, in our joyful surprise. 

To praise thee and bless thee we straightway forget. 



50 



REQUITAL. 

FULL many passing clouds go by, 
For one bright ray of sun; 
Full many raindrops from on high, 
Before the year is done! 

Full many shadows o'er the grass, 

Ere buds and leaves can spring! 
The nightly dews must come and pass. 
For Earth's great blossoming. 

Full many notions swiftly go 

Across the human mind; 
But presently, amidst their flow. 

One thought worth while to find ! 



51 



ALADDIN'S CHOICE. 

WHEN Aladdin, in rubbing his magical lamp, 
Found the way to his wonderful cave, 
He delayed not at all for the dew and the damp, 
But followed his trusty old slave. 

He followed along, while the lamp's ruddy light 
Showed the path straight before them in view, 

Like the ray of a wandering star, shining bright, 
Or a cloud of a roseate hue. 

And the cave held such treasures beyond all compare, 
He was dazzled in making his choice; 

No monarch, with richest of diadems rare, 
Had such jewels the heart to rejoice. 

He chose from among them a glittering store, 

While over them all was still shed 
The light from the lamp, glowing more and yet more, 

With the fire of a ruby so red. 

And he suddenly saw that the lamp, of itself. 

Was the jewel the greatest of all; 
For the rest were as nothing but pitiful pelf, 

If no light on their beauty could fall. 

52 



Aladdin's Choice 53 

For diamonds sparkle, and emeralds gleam, 

And pearls are as white as the snow, 
But love, like a flame, flashes out, in the beam 

From the heart of the ruby's red glow. 

And love is the magical talisman strong 

That gives light, all the length of life's way, 

And still with its glory to lead us along. 
In its pathway, forever and aye. 



HYSSOP. 

THRICE happy plant, upheld aloft, 
To help the thirst to slake 
Of Him the rabble mocked and scoffed. 
Who died for all men's sake! 

Thy lowly virtues, gladly used, 

Still aid the world to-day; 
By neither time nor space confused, 

Mankind yet owns thy sway. 

And blessed by that brief fleeting glance 

On thee, the Master gave. 
Thou hast, since then, the double chance. 

The power to cleanse, and save. 

Ah! may our spirits also know 
In thought, that mighty grace, 

Which still the Master's love can show. 
The glory of His face! 



54 



THE FLASH. 

A SPARK, a glow, 
A gleam of light, 
A word, to go 
Across the night! 

A chance, a hope, 

A living flame 
Of wondrous scope, 

And mighty name! 

From ages brought, 
A whirling breath, 

That sounds the thought 
Of life, and death! 



55 



BENEDICITE. 

TO each of us, a kindly fate 
Has sometimes spared, when not too late. 
To strike the blow prepared to fall, 
Upsetting life, o'erwhelming all. 

And in our hearts, a deepened joy 
Shines o'er the world, without alloy; 
And that which wings our thoughts along 
Is sometimes prayer — and sometimes song. 



56 



THE OSIER BASKET. 

TENDERLY a mother's hands 
Made this little basket, when 
Yet across the seashore sands 

Christ still walked on earth with men. 

Many osier twigs she took, 

Carefully she formed the braid. 

Moistened it within the brook, 
Wove it watchfully, till made. 

From her kinsfolk she had learned 

Of a mighty Man, who spoke 
Words of eloquence that burned, 

Souls that stirred, and hearts that broke. 

And if true, what people said, 

Always did a blessing come. 
Men were raised up from the dead, — 

Blind were healed, and deaf, and dumb. 

Sorrow-laden souls had hope, 
Sins were pardoned; thus indeed, 

All the doors of Heaven to ope 
For the world, so much in need. 

57 



58 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

And of course, true love to show, 
This fond mother wished her son 

Could the famous Teacher know, 
Hear and see this Mighty One. 

So she sent the little lad, 
And, lest hungry he might be. 

Packed the osier basket, glad 
Childish comforts to o'ersee. 

Two, three, four, five barley loaves, 
Two small fishes, — boyish touch 

In the hills, or forest groves. 

Would not find for him too much. 

Even in the desert still 

He might have to go, to find 

That great One, — and walk until 
Home was left far, far behind. 

Thus she stored the basket well, 
Little dreaming of the chance 

Which her simple work befell, 
All its marvelous expanse. 



The Osier Basket 59 

How the gracious Lord beheld 

Starving multitudes around; 
And, His heart with pity swelled, 

Had them seated on the ground. 

How He took her scanty store. 

Giving it with loving care, 
Making of it more and more. 

Never stinting each one's share. 

How He fed, with blessings good, 

Full five thousand souls that day; 
Satisfied them all with food. 

Sent them comforted away. 

And the fragments, gathered well. 

Many baskets filled withal; 
While the men went forth to tell 

Christ's great wonders magical. 

This the One the Prophets meant, 
Healing deaf, and dumb, and blind, 

Promised long ago, and sent 
Now at last, to all mankind. 



6o The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

With the others walked the boy, 

And, though hearing what they said, 

Understanding not the joy 
Over all their spirits shed. 

When he reached his home again, 
Quick, his mother asked him where 

He had left, in grove, or fen. 
That small basket, packed with care. 

Then his childish tale he told; 

That his spirit was not stirred 
By the prophecies of old, 

Even by the Master's word. 

One thing only moved his heart, 

Made him all the rest forget. 
Basket, bread, or hunger's smart, — 

Wondering, with vague regret. 

Seeing still that heavenly bright 
Splendor, shed around the place, 

Glowing like a brilliant light. 
Just the glory of His face. 



The Osier Basket 6i 



Shining, shining, hke a star. 
Drawing all the world to Him, 

Reaching out afar, — afar, — 
Moving not, or growing dim. 

Making of the place a shrine, 

Nevermore to be forgot; 
Wheresoe'er His light should shine. 

There would be a hallowed spot. 

Giving earthly troubles wings, 
Radiating peace and love, 

Sanctifying little things, 
For a message from above. 

Ne'er can aught that light forbid. 

Far its rays of hope are hurled, — 
In an osier basket hid 

Bread of Life for all the world. 



THE FIELD OF THE CLOTH OF GOLD. 
(1520 — 1920) 

NO stately pageants of the past, 
With all their brilliant ranks and powers, 
Can equal just a meadow vast 
Of lowly dandelion flowers. 

Kings proudly showed their cloth of gold, 
And passed away, — no longer seen. 

But Nature spreads, just as of old. 
Her golden mantle o'er the green. 

The sun shone o'er their Majesties 

Who trod the world beneath their feet ; 

Now sunlight mocks their braveries, 
This newer field of gold to greet. 

The world has changed, and we have learned, 
Past all the pride of mighty kings, 

A deeper thought to be discerned, 
The worth of lowly, lovely things ! 



62 



MOTHER. 

WE journey along through this world as we may, 
And some hours are merry and bright, 
While others are gloomy, with never a ray 
To dispel the dark phantoms of night. 

Through sunshine or shadow, come weal or come woe, 

For each of us still is a place. 
Where in joy or in grief we forever may go. 

And find peace, — just the smile of a face. 

Deep down in the heart, each and every one 

Has a spot set apart, like a shrine; 
And whatever of good in this world we have done 

Is for "Mother,"— your "Mother," or mine! 



63 



A LASTING PEACE. 

TWO parts there are to that great song 
Which celebrates the Saviour's birth ; 
The angel voices still prolong 

That glorious anthem, "Peace on Earth !" 

But ere the world heeds this appeal, 
The second part must sound again. 

We do not truly think, or feel. 

Or know that thought, "Good will towards men !' 



64 



THE ROSEBUSH. 

A ROSEBUSH green in a garden grew, 
More fair with each passing hour; 
The sunshine warm and the fragrant dew 
Gave her hfe, and strength, and power. 

The birds, on the branches of near-by trees, 
With their songs made glad her heart, — 

While bees and butterflies strove to please, 
And joy to her life impart. 

So, nurtured in care, did the rosebush grow. 

With never a thought of harm; 
Though storms might rage, and the fierce winds blow. 

She was sheltered, safe and warm. 

And by and by, 'mid her leaves close pressed. 

Came a tiny blossom pure. 
And the rosebush rejoiced, within her breast, 

At her happiness so secure. 

For age-long days did the blossom expand; 

And its petals of snowy white 
Seemed to catch the sun rays spread o'er the land. 

And reflect their brilliant light. 

s 65 



66 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

Such pride and joy had the rosebush fair, 
As she glowed, in motherly mirth. 

And waved her leaves in the ambient air, 
To the sun, and sky, and earth! 

And even old Time, in demanding his toll, 
Though he strewed upon the ground 

The leaves of that rose, could not touch its soul, 
In the heart of the rosebush found. 

For every rose that fades and falls, 

To the heart of motherhood 
Brings a thought that always divinely calls, 

The spirit of all things good. 

To every mother is surely brought, 

Though rose-petals day by day 
May scattered be, that same lovely thought, 

Her child is her child, for aye. 

And nothing sweeter in all the world, 

Whether life is hard or mild. 
Can be found, than a rosebud half uncurled, 

The heart of a little child. 



SEMPITERNAL. 

NEW thoughts, new hopes, new aspirations rise, 
New melodies, borne on the breath of spring, 
The dawn of new ideals in the skies, 

On earth fresh hope for ev'ry living thing. 



67 



EASTER LILIES. 

FAIR as thoughts that upward soar, 
On the spirit's wing, 
Easter lihes, in their hearts, 
Hold the breath of spring; 
Rising from the sodden ground, 
Fresh new Hfe to bring. 



68 



THE ANGEL'S TOUCH. 

THE clouds of early morn obscured the sky; 
The winds of heaven blew softly o'er the land, — 
The peace of utter silence, far and nigh, 
Awaited soon the miracle at hand. 

Entombed, the Lord of all the World arose, 

In strength and glory brought from realms unknown. 

And, that untouched. He might His love disclose. 
An angel came, to roll away the stone. 

O hearts made hard by care, or chained by joy, 
Behold the Lord of Life, the Sun of Day ! 

No doubts or fears can e'er His power destroy, — 
His angel's touch shall roll your stone away. 



69 



THE SHIELD AND BUCKLER. 

NOT guns and cannon roaring loud, 
Not bombs and shrieking shells 
Alone can win, in conflict proud, 
'Gainst well armed citadels. 

A shield and buckler greater still 
Than all these arms of men 

Will give a strength, a glow, a thrill, 
Past any human ken. 

This shining weapon, held forsooth 

With honor, in the fight. 
Makes certain victory for truth. 

The mighty shield of Right. 



70 



A MIRACLE. 

THE World was old, — 
So old and weary, 
Weary unto death. 

Generations after generations of men 
Had lived their little lives, 
Had struggled and hoped, 
Had fought and loved, and then, 
One and all, 

Had gone out into the darkness. 
And now the World was old. 
And he would fain have slept. 

Brooding over the face of the Deep, 

He mused, 

And his musings were as sad as night. 

What was the worth of it all? 

The constant struggle, 

The fitful flame, 

The fleeting pleasures. 

And then, — 

Darkness and silence! 

Hope was a delusive thing, 

Love*s smile did not always last. 

And Duty was stern and cold. 

71 



72 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

As he still pondered, 

Lo ! a tiny mist from Heaven descended, 

And drew nearer and nearer 

To the old World. 

And as it came, 

The light returned to the eyes of the World, 

And Hope again nestled in his heart, 

For, as it reached him, 

The mist parted, 

And behold! 

A cradle, 

With a fresh new life therein! 

And the old World smiled, 

And knew that once again 

The eternal miracle had been wrought. 

And that he should live again 

In the little child. 



FOLLOWING THE STAR. 

WE follow, fojlow, where it leads, 
That star of glory bright. 
Above all thought of forms and creeds, 
Shines out that heavenly light. 

And as, of old, the Wise Men saw 

Salvation for mankind, 
The reign of peace, and love, and law, 

For all who were not blind, — 

So we behold its promise true, 

And struggle to attain 
That light which points the way anew, 

The Light of Life again. 



73 



ECHOES. 

THROUGH mountain fastness deep, 
Where rolling sound-waves are, 
The uttered thoughts will sweep, 
In echoes near and far. 

Full oft, a wish sincere 

Will find its counterpart, 
Expressed, an echo clear, 

Deep down in someone's heart. 

And nevermore forgot, 

For liberty out-hurled, 
Shall be that mighty shot 

Which echoed round the world. 

Ah! none can say how great. 
From farthest limits brought, 

May be the power of Fate, 
To echo each man's thought. 

For forces strong, beyond, 
This world will still control; 

And life will quick respond. 
The echo of the soul. 

74 



WATERS OF STRIFE. 

O WATERS of Strife, which o'er all of the world 
Have swept, in deep thunderous streams, 
Like a giant, your billows you swiftly have hurled. 
And borne away many fair dreams. 

Our beliefs in our civilized life are all gone, 

Our trust in the virtue of power, 
Our faith in the force of a treaty, overthrown 

In a single dark murderous hour. 

You have swept old ideas away in a flood, 
You have called for a sacrifice grand; 

We are paying in life, — we are paying in blood, — 
For a cause that we can not withstand. 

A sorrow so heavy it never can rise 

Bows down the whole world with its weight; 

While tears, blinding tears scorch and burn in our eyes, 
Though they watch with hope, early and late. 

Ah ! bring in exchange, what will make life worth while, 

A new world, without and within, — 
For prejudice, kindness, — for hatred, a smile, — 

Wash away all our folly and sin. 

75 



76 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

If so cleansed in our souls, with a purity true, 
We may once again welcome new life 

Under better conditions than ever we knew, 
We will bless e'en the Waters of Strife. 



OVER THE HILLS AND FAR AWAY. 

JUNE is astir in the fragrant air; 
Blossoms bedeck the scene so fair, — 
Robins are singing their gayest song, 
Breezes are wafting the sound along. 

Merrily flow the rippling rills, 
Tumbling adown the distant hills, — 
Trees are awake to the joyous sound. 
Drawing their life from under ground. 

Fairies are dancing across the green, 
Only by dullards unheard, unseen, 
Piping the world from work, to play, — 
Over the hills and far away. 



77 



BUTTERFLIES. 

MANY happy moments fly 
On the winds, 'twixt earth and sky, 
Tossed about Hke thistle-down, 
Upwards, downwards, softly blown. 
Mortals, whether child or man, 
Catch them whensoe'er you can ; 
For the while you pause or wait, 
Swiftly through the golden gate 
Leading to the farthest shore, 
They are gone, f orevermore. 



78 



THE PITY OF IT! 

WE pour our millions out before the mighty God 
of War,— 
We send our aid to stricken souls, our ships from 

near and far, 
With clothing, food, and help, and kindly thoughts 

that never cease. 
Why is it that we never did these things in time of 
peace ? 

We sympathize with soldiers, sailors, homeless ones 

untold ; 
We train our nurses, send them forth with comforts 

manifold. 
Had we no poor and ill before? no halt, or maimed, 

or blind? 
Alas ! that war was needed, so to teach us to be kind ! 

With but a trifling part of all the thought and money 

spent 
In making of this Earth a living, human armament, 
The strictest search no poor and needy mortals would 

disclose ; 
For all, abundance, — since the world would blossom 

as the rose. 

79 



FROM THE OTHER SIDE. 

IN melody so clear and true, 
Across the unknown sea, 
His voice will ever echo through 
The halls of memory. 

In deep and throbbing waves it floats, 
Beyond all stress and strife; 

For he has struck those mighty notes, 
The chords of Death — and Life. 



80 



THE LINK. 

BEYOND the farthest firmament, 
A mighty force is thrown, 
Ethereal, omnipotent. 

To hold and keep its own. 

Its strength and influence sublime. 
From utmost limits brought, 

Are shown to those, defying time. 
Who know the power of thought! 



8i 



THE GUEST. 

IN simple fashion were they wont to place 
An extra chair at table, ev'ry day, 
That so they might, with heartiness and grace, 

Give ready welcoming, without delay, 
To friend or neighbor who might come betimes, 

Or e'en a stranger passing down the road, 
If worn and weary, as it chanced sometimes. 
Or burdened down by age's heavy load. 

For these were true and kindly souls, who knew 

Just what it meant to force a way along 
The dusty roads of life, with very few 

To say a hopeful word, or right a wrong. 
They knew, for theirs had been a hard-won ease; 

And many years had passed above their heads 
In poverty, while sorrow and disease 

Cast heavy shadows o'er them, filled with dreads. 

As at their door they stood, they saw, one day, 

A wretched little lad was passing by. 
So worn and hungry, far too tired to play, 

Yet limping on, as if his strength to try. 
They took him in, and fed and clothed him well, 

And placed him snugly in the vacant chair ; 
Nor asked him all his story yet to tell. 

Until recovered from fatigue and care. 

82 



The Guest 83 

And as they looked upon his features, lo! 

There came a wondrous change across his face, 
An inward light, that seemed to shine and glow, 

A mystic radiancy of peace and grace. 
"As unto one of these, so unto Me," 

Rang in their hearts, — and then they looked once 
more. 
Was this the Master they were blessed to see? 

He smiled, then slept, — a boy, just as before. 



VISIONS OF THE FUTURE. 

THE Crusaders of old had the thought, 
As some struggHng mortals have now, 
That the woes of this world were all brought 
By force, before which all must bow. 

But ideas have changed; for we know 
There are Forces which never can fail ; 

And these shall all Evil o'erthrow, 

In a world where the Right must prevail. 



84 



CZAR NICHOLAS II. 

AS shines the sun o'er some forsaken tower, 
Which stands, a symbol of the mighty past. 
So plays the smile upon the lips of power 
Whose greatness, withered, could no longer last. 

And from the hearts of those who once might crave 
The honors and the glory of a throne. 

Comes now, from high and low, from prince or slave, 
A touch of pity for the greatness gone. 



65 



IN FICTION. 

WHEN heroines are in a strait, 
Or heroes are beset by foes, 
When villains prosper, help comes late, 
And uppermost are crimes and woes, 
Fear not the outcome or the end; 

For bear in mind, whatever betide, 
'Mid all their foes, is one strong friend,- 
They have the author on their side! 



86 



THE HEART OF LIFE. 

THROUGH ice and snow, the heart of life 
Is beating warm and strong, 
In peaceful homes where hope is rife, 
Or battle-fields of deadly strife. 
Where right contends with wrong. 

Through ice and snow, the sun still shines ; 

The world yet moves along. 
Each heart its own more close enshrines, 
The while, with joy that ne'er declines, 

Love still sends forth its song. 



87 



"NEVER AGAIN!" 

HOW many times do we say it, 
Laughing, or weeping the while! 
Debt, when we struggle to pay it, 

Smiles, when we know of their guile! 

Memories that we would alter 
Show us their saddening side; 

And if with these we would palter, 
Still they more deeply abide. 

Words that we wish we had spoken, 

Others much better unsaid. 
Vows lightly made, lightly broken, 

Deeds for which dearly we paid. 

Ah! we may jest, if we like it; 

Yet in our hearts, joy or pain. 
Pleasure or grief, when we strike it, 

Makes us say : "Never again I" 



88 



SPINNERS AND KNITTERS. 

THE spinners of old, through the livelong day, 
When war was abroad in the land, 
Were working, with never a thought of pay, 
Each one for her chosen band. 

And as they were working, and as they spun, 
They thought of the homes they loved. 

And prayed that speedily wars would be done. 
And the right could be finally proved. 

The knitters to-day, at their endless tasks. 

Are plying their needles swift, 
And each, in her inmost spirit, asks 

That the nation's dark clouds may lift. 

For each has a brother, or husband, or son, 

Or some one that she holds dear; 
And battles seem easily lost, or won, 

For reasons not always clear. 

So women, in warfare, have always worked, 

Assisting their troops at war ; 
They have never their duty evaded or shirked, 

Whether battles were near or far. 

89 



90 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

And the dream goes on, — all the ages through, 
While never our prayers shall cease, 

That at last we may make the vision true, 
Spin and knit the v^orld into peace. 



TO FIRE. 

FROM heaven Prometheus stole thee, 
To bless, and curse mankind. 
Thou givest warmth and comfort ; 

Thou leavest wreck behind. 
Thou art a servant trusty, — 
Thou art a master blind. 

But always, in thy whispers. 

Or in thy roar profound. 
Thy stolen source is shown us 

In strange, mysterious sound, 
Unlike aught else in nature, 

Above, or undergroimd. 

If e'er Prometheus take thee, 

And thou at last expire, 
This world will so much miss thee, 

Thy help so much require. 
That with one voice resounding 

Will come the cry for Fire ! 



91 



AMERICA'S MUSIC. 

PRIMEVAL forests whispered it; 
The birds took up the song, — 
The winds blew o'er the prairie lands, 

And carried it along. 
The mountains, from their lofty heights. 

Flung upward to the sky 
The mighty chant of Freedom, like 
Great rivers rushing by. 

Across the sea, the nations heard, 

And answered to the call. 
From ev'ry land they hurried fast. 

Escaping from the thrall 
Of masters hard, or circumstance 

That bound them in its chain, 
And finding, in the Western World, 

The joy of hope again. 

The settlers on the mountains, or 

The dwellers on the shore. 
The Red Men in the forest lands, 

The miners' golden ore, — 
The right of equal justice shown, 

With all it means to men, 
Strikes clear the note of Freedom's cry, 

Through ev'ry crag and glen. 

92 



America's Music 93 

Ring out, O music of the soul ! 

Since first the world began, 
It voices all the hopes and fears 

Within the heart of man. 
Where sound the mighty floodgates, from 

The hilltops to the sea, 
America's great music rings, 

The chant of Liberty ! 



CHRISTMAS STARS. 

THE light of stars is o'er the world, 
The hush of Christmas night ; 
The clouds, like smoke-wreaths softly curled, 
Pass swiftly out of sight. 

The stars proclaim a glory true, 

A lasting peace to find, — 
The world with reason to imbue. 

And freedom for mankind. 

As shone the stars o'er Bethlehem, 

So shine they still to-day, 
More bright than earthly diadem, — 

God's laws they all obey. 

His justice evermore must reign, 
Through pain, and grief, and scars. 

Ideals true alone attain 
The promise of the stars. 



94 



CHOPIN'S UNWRITTEN MUSIC. 

SO delicate, ethereal, 
And fairy-like, his charm. 
That like a web of gossamer, 
To keep from earthly harm 
Would need such care and thoughtfulness 

As only love could bring. 
That great magician of the soul, 
Supreme o'er ev'rything. 

Alas ! he thought great Love had come ! 

He gave his inmost heart, — 
He played his finest melodies. 

His soul's most wondrous art. 
But she, with lightsome laughter filled, 

With egotism, and pride, 
In stories used his music, then 

Forsook him,— and he died. 

How many haunting melodies. 

How many hopes and fears 
Might well have found expression choice, 

In other, later years! 
Though thankful for what he has done, 

And all he left behind. 
How can the world forgive her for 

This loss to all mankind? 

95 



THE LEGEND OF ISRAFEL. 

TO guard the gates of Eden, angels four 
Stood ever watchful, as the hours went by, 
To keep away all evil, evermore, 

Or aught that would not bless and glorify. 

Bold Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, 

With him whose wondrous, ringing, heart-strung 
lyre 
Accompanied his voice, brave Israfel, 

The sweetest singer in the heavenly choir. 

In music wrapped, by music led astray. 
Delighting all that mighty, heavenly host, 

Absorbed in melody, one fateful day, 
Grave Israfel a moment left his post. 

And in a flash, the Evil, waiting near. 

Embodiment of wretchedness and sin, 
Saw well his chance, and with a mocking sneer. 

The ugly Serpent swiftly glided in. 

Then followed sin, unhappiness, and woe. 
With all the ills attendant in their train, 

With banishment from Eden*s happy glow. 
The forfeiture of love, the curse of Cain. 

Foreknowing this, th' Almighty One ordained 

For punishment, wherever Israfel 
Might step, or look, or breathe, whatever pertained 

To Life should vanish, under Death's dark spell. 

96 



The Legend of Israfel 97 

He touched the blossoms near, — they withered quite; 

He watched a singing bird, — it fell down dead. 
The trees, before his gaze, were struck with blight, — 

The grass was sere and yellow, 'neath his tread. 

His lyre all broken, and his music mute. 
He threw himself adown, in his despair, 

And cried, in deep abasement absolute : 

"My punishment is more than I can bear !" 

Then came the Life-Giver, Emmanuel, 

And touched his arm, and smiled, and gently said : 
"O brother, weep no more, for all is well, — 

I will go with thee, and restore thy dead." 

His footsteps made the sere grass fresh and green. 

The trees revived, — the blossoms, bright and gay, 
Brought back to life, again adorned the scene. 

He raised the bird which, singing, flew away. 

Thus aided, Israfel, no more disgraced, 
In worship knelt, and cast away his fears. 

His hand within Emmanuel's was placed, — 
Together still they journey through the years. 

The Resurrection music on his lyre, 

In trumpet strains, sings ever Israfel; 
His deepest note struck with a human fire, 

In adoration of Emmanuel. 



OUR NATION. 

OUR nation's life to save 
From a dishonored grave, 
To arms we spring. 
Ne'er while Democracy 
Holds sway from sea to sea, 
Shall we submit to be 
Bound by a king. 

Our people gathered here, 
From countries far and near, 

Still shall be true 
To all for which we strive. 
All that has made us thrive ; 
To keep our hopes alive. 

Our strength renew. 

True liberty to show. 
And ever stronger grow. 

This be our cry : — 
For truth, and honor bright, 
For justice, peace, and right, 
We stand, in freedom's might. 

To live or die ! 



98 



THE WATCHWORD. 

THROUGH ev'ry fruitful, rolling plain, 
Each river, waterfall, 
And mountain, rings the deep refrain, 

The watchword over all, 
Proclaiming loud, from main to main, 
The breadth of Freedom's call. 

True liberty ! with honor, right. 

And justice, for our guide ; 
Not judgment crushed, beneath the might 

Of lordly rank and pride, 
Or raised on swords, that rashly smite 

All peaceful thoughts aside. 

Our people came from near and far. 

From ev'ry land on earth. 
Democracy's bright leading star 

Shall banish war and dearth, 
And hearts unlock, and gates unbar, 

In lands that gave them birth. 

For love of law alone can bring 

True freedom in the world. 
O'er ev'ry nation let it ring, 

Our Country's watchword hurled. 
The song of Liberty to sing, 

Where'er our flag unfurled ! 

99 



EASTER. 

ROBINS singing, skies of blue, 
Swift upspringing blossoms few, 
Church bells ringing, accents true, 

Always bringing hope anew ; 
While a-swinging o'er the dew. 

Thought-waves, winging me to you. 



100 



RESURREXIT. 

CHRIST is risen!" Loud the cry 
Sent across the Easter dawn; 
Ringing still, through years gone by, 
Nevermore to be withdrawn : 
"Christ is risen !" 



lOI 



STRATFORD-ON-AVON. 

BY the softly flowing river, 
On its winding journey down, 
While the dancing moonbeams quiver, 
Shine the stars o'er Shakespeare's town. 

In their light, forever beaming, 
Looms the church wherein he lies; 

Full of grace and godly seeming, 
As of yore, before his eyes. 

And the houses then that knew him. 
In the fullness of his power. 

Still remain, to sadly rue him. 

Standing thus, from hour to hour. 

Though the Master's life, departed 
From their empty, vacant shells 

Left his world so broken hearted. 
These remain, like hollow bells. 

Yet in echoes, music sounding 

Still shall flow, like strains of yore. 

Carry backward thoughts abounding, 
Many hundred years before. 

102 



Stratford -on -Avon 103 

And in shadow, gravely walking, 

'Mid these sweet, familiar scenes, 
Soul to soul, in silence talking, 

Shakespeare's self the echo gleans. 

For his spirit hovers ever 

Where he loved once to abide ; 
And in Stratford, one will never 

Fail to find him by one's side. 

In the shadows of the moonlight, 

Low before his feet we fall. 
Dawn or even, morn or noonlight, 

Mighty Shakespeare — King o'er all! 



WAR CLOUDS. 

LIKE gulls, screaming loudly across the blue sky, 
Fly dark clouds of war, on the wing, 
And never a joy in their wake we descry, 
For war is a terrible thing. 

Ill omened these birds, ill conditioned, as well ; 

If allowed, they will fast settle down. 
With a roar, and a rush, and a funeral knell, 

Bringing woe to each hamlet and town. 

Then Reason's clear guns, quickly brought, must be 
used. 

Let their volleys be heard from afar ; 
Let the Mind of Mankind, with true wisdom infused. 

Break and scatter all black clouds of war. 



T04 



A SPRING IDYL. 

OH, Pan may pipe, 
And birds may sing 
The songs of spring; 
But let them bring 
Love's prototype, — 

For sun will shine, 
And joy be ripe, 

When you are mine, 
My Valentine! 



105 



EAST AND WEST. 

AS goes the brilliant orb of day, 
So empires rise and fall. 
From east to west they take their way, 
Triumphant over all. 

The goal once reached where first begun, 
Perchance, with force increased. 

Will come again, like shining sun, 
New glories from the East. 



io6 



COURAGE. 

IT is good to be brave, in a war ; 
It is good to be calm, on the sea, — 
Shot and shell flying wild in the air, 
Or the waters o'erflowing the lea. 

The courage of victory great 

Brings the need of restraint, in all power. 
Still greater, in loss or defeat. 

Is to bear up, in trouble's dark hour. 

In a thousand ways, courage the best, 

In conflict or trial, is shown. 
But the bravery hardest of all 

Is — calmly to face the Unknown. 



107 



RETROSPECTION. 

SO look we back, across the scope 
Of years now past and gone; 
The stars of Faith, and Love, and Hope 
Still leading on and on. 



io8 



THE OLD CLOCK. 

IT stands, defying time, 
Yet still accounting, too ; 
In dignity sublime, 
To ev'ry minute true. 

And all the planets turn 

Around a central sun. 
In background blue, where burn 

The stars, e'er shining on. 

All planets that were known 
In those old days now past, — 

Yet only six are shown. 
For Saturn was the last. 

Around the Earth, the Moon 

Revolves, as in the sky; 
And neither late nor soon. 

Pursues its course on high. 

Upon its face, the clock 

Another moon can show, 
With face and eyes that mock 

Time's changes, as they go. 

Quaint tunes this old clock plays, 
On chimes that bravely ring, 

As in the ancient days 

When George the Third was King. 

109 



1 10 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

"Plague on those Wenches," yet 
We echo. "Harvest Home," 
A dainty "Minuet," 

And also, "Brave Boys Come." 

"The Hounds are all out," and 
"The King of Prussia March," 
Sweet "Lovely Nancy," grand. 
Coquettish, droll, and arch. 

"Dear Cloe, give me sweet 

Kisses," "Freemason's Health," 
"The Pilgrim," obsolete, 

"The Hemp Dressers," for wealth. 

The world has changed ; still we 
That hear these old tunes ring 

Men of the past can see, — 

And join "God save the King." 

For George, Fifth of the name, 
The ancient chords now sound. 

Their meaning is the same, 
Although the years go round. 

So stands this clock, with mien 
Untouched by mode or art; 

It views all life serene, — 
Of Time, itself a part. 



A LILAC GLIMPSE. 

LILACS, with branches slender, 
Up on the hillside grow. 
Thither, with footsteps tender, 
Lovers are wont to go. 

Seated 'neath lilacs, naught heeding. 

Lover and maiden fair! 
He, with a manner pleading. 

She, with a downcast air. 

Quickly we passed, ne'er knowing 
Whether he lost or won, — 

Only the lilacs showing 
Under the noonday sun. 



Ill 



SPRING'S PROMISE. 
(A Valentine.) 

DANCING o'er the meadows, 
Smiling through the snow, 
Spring, o'er Winter's shoulder, 
Whispers soft and low. 

Telling of the Summer, 

In whose mighty train, 
Buds, and birds, and blossoms 

Charm the world again. 

Best of all the glories 

'Neath those skies of blue, 

Love with joy is singing. 
Summer brings us — you! 



112 



THE VISION. 

LIFT up my soul above life's stress 
And storm, to dreams of happiness, 
Where vexing cares no more distress, 
But Hope and Faith my spirit bless ; 
Lift up my soul! 

Up to the Mount, where I may see 
The vision of the figures three; 
The central form. Divinity, 
Still blessing all, with Charity, — 
Lift up my soul ! 



113 



FOUND. 

MAGNIFICENT in strength and beauty rare, 
From out the solid earth the statue came ; 
Exhumed with infinite research and care, 
An ancient god, in face, and form, and name. 

As if disdaining all the hopes and fears 

Of mortals, do the lips divinely smile; 
Although, since long ago, no prayer he hears, — 

His broken shrines no more the world beguile. 

And if those lips could speak, what would they say? 

Perchance this altered world would look so grim 
That he would sadly wish to hide away 

Within the earth again, 'mid shadows dim. 

Unknown, contemned, from former life estranged, 
Who would not much prefer the friendly ground 

Or deepest sea, which rolls for aye unchanged. 
Where neither gods nor mortals can be found? 



IT4 



SWIFTER THAN THE WIND. 

THE Wind is a rover, we know; 
He visits each leaflet and flower, 
He whirls up the mountains of snow. 
He scatters the drops of a shower. 

Yet I will forgive him his pranks. 
And never my mind let him scare. 

But give him my heartiest thanks. 
If a message to you he will bear. 

He must tell you that every day, 
As he spreads out his pinions to fly, 

Before he is fairly away. 

In my thoughts, all his speed I outvie. 

For swifter than aught else beside 
Is a love that is loyal and true. 

Though many the miles that divide, 
I am daily and hourly with you, — 
I am daily and hourly with you ! 



115 



AS SINGS THE WIND. 

AS sings the wind across a sun-lit plain 
A throbbing chant of music, soft and low, 
So happy memories, in sweet refrain, 
Recall the pleasant days of long ago. 

And often, as the wind-swept music rings. 
Within our hearts there comes a mighty thrill; 

Of deeds of valor joyfully it sings, 
And calls on us its promise to fulfill. 

Within the years that leave their fateful mark 
On all mankind, for good or evil trace. 

To voices of the past we gladly hark, 
Yet look the future bravely in the face. 

As did our ancestors, in times gone by, 
So we to emulate their doings strive. 

In peace or war, consistently we try 

To think what they would do, if still alive. 

And sometimes, when the curtain of the past 

Is blown aside a little, and we see 
What struggles, pain, and anxious days at last 

Grew bright again, we smile right joyously. 

ii6 



As Sings the Wind 117 

What man hath done, so man can do once more, — 

Bring order out of sad, chaotic days. 
And thus we scan again the ancient lore, 

And give our forefathers due meed of praise. 



They wrestled with the problems of their time 
As we with ours ; and if we do as well, 

Our country may to heights of glory climb, 
In peace secure, past shock of shot or shell. 

Yet stirring winds of destiny have blown 

Across our world, and changed its life and thought. 

No longer can we selfishly disown 
Another's burdens, to our notice brought. 

We have, indeed, to learn the ancient rule, 
To do for others as we would that they 

Should do for us, if in life's changing school 
Our roles were just reversed, the other way. 

So shall the world be gladdened by our aid. 

So shall it be a better place to live; 
And we ourselves, a thousand times repaid. 

For all the joy and happiness we give. 

O mighty forces, blowing through the world, 
How may we best your strength and glory learn ? 

How on your flowing banners, all unfurled, 

Inscribe the thoughts with which our spirits burn ? 



1 1 8 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

Teach us the past, in all its fruitful power, 
But give us future hope and courage too ; 

So that the darkest or the brightest hour 
May find us loyal, ready, staunch, and true. 

Thus our beloved country, year by year. 

Upheld shall be, where'er she might have sinned; 

While from remotest regions she shall hear 
Her song of triumph borne upon the wind ! 



TO AN AZTEC GOD. 

MISSHAPEN, bowed, distorted, old,- 
What thought of man could be 
The maker of thy fate untold, 
Th}^ hideous mystery? 

From out the shadows of the past 

Thou comest to our view, 
A nightmare horror, that was cast 

Full many ages through. 

Ah, then thou hadst a mighty power 

The souls of men to sway ! 
Now none regret thee, or the hour 

That drove thy kind away! 



119 



THE GYPSY TRAIL. 

IF I were a Gypsy, to follow the trail, 
And you would come after, with me, 
Our footsteps should wander o'er mountain and vale, 
And even across the deep sea. 

In the far trackless desert, the path of the sun, 
Which outshines all the glories of earth. 

Should be trod by our feet, that so swiftly would run 
To follow the Goddess of Mirth. 

No dark gloomy clouds should envelop our way ; 

No worries embarrass our hearts. 
For light as a bird, on the branches that sway. 

The shadow of trouble departs. 

I will wrap you around in a mantle of light; 

I will cherish each fanciful thought. 
Your happiness never shall vanish from sight. 

Since deep in my heart it is wrought. 

Then follow, oh follow this wonderful trail ! 

Let the world and its pageantries go. 
My love is a beacon that never shall fail; 

All the world with its light is aglow! ':■} 

120 



PROPHETS. 

VOICES raised to speak the Word, 
Through the centuries are heard, 
TelHng of the needs of man, 
With a warning, curse, or ban. 

Loudly do the prophets cry, — 
Claim their words are from on high. 
Yet their sayings, if they last. 
Show the future from the past! 



121 



THE FOURFOLD STRAND. 

TO draw us heavenward on our way 
There is a fourfold strand, 
With mighty power our course to sway, 
And at our sure command. 

Of Truth, and perfect Honesty, 
And Justice, kindly weighed, 

To which is added Purity, — 
Of these the strand is made. 

We may not fully find or know 

Perfection, in our lives. 
But guiding us, where'er we go. 

This strand our hope revives. 

For whosoe'er its strength will try, 

To carry out life's plan, 
Will find that on its force rely 

All laws, — of God, and man. 



122 



JOHN THE BAPTIST. 

THE voice of one who cried aloud 
From out the wilderness: 
"Repent ! Repent !" The passing crowd, 
The rich and poor, the low and proud, 
With heads aloft, or shoulders bowed, 
All sought for happiness. 

He fain would make them see how blind 

Were all those earth-bound eyes, 
That turned aside, with words unkind, 
Or mocking sneers that thrust behind 
The hope true happiness to find, 
.Eternal Life's great prize! 



123 



THE SECRET OF THE PINES. 

WITH breath of summer in their branches held, 
The pine trees keep a secret in their hearts. 
They know that when they finally are felled, 

And when the joy of summer time departs, 
They are the trees, forever fresh and green. 

That chosen are, to bear the Christmas gifts ; 
With light of shining candles o'er the scene. 

And spicy perfumes that belie the drifts 
Of snow without, and tell of summer days. 

So in the forest, through the seasons slow, 
They gather strength, and joy, and love, to praise 

Their great Creator, in their Christmas glow. 



124 



THE POOL OF BETHESDA. 

STILL does the troubled pool of mercy flow; 
Still to its waters do the people go, 
The lame, the blind, the ill of ev'ry sort, 
There, in the hope of health, they all resort. 

And who shall say, if healing springs abound. 
They are not like an angel's touch, when found? 
Or who would turn away from any grace 
By mercy shown, in whatsoever place? 

The cleansing water, or the healing word. 
However sin-sick hearts and souls are stirred, 
Praised be Bethesda, with its fountain cool. 
The House of Mercy, and the Flowing Pool ! 



125 



AND PILATE WASHED HIS HANDS. 

I FIND no fault in Him!" thus Pilate said, 
And washed his hands before the multitude; 
But yet allowed the Master to be led 
Away to dreadful death, with shame imbued. 

So runs the story, all the ages through. 

Yet who shall say what qualms of conscience came? 
Or how he later wished he might undo 

His acts and words of cowardice and shame! 

With Caesar ever present in his mind, 

The ruler of the world, from whom he held 

His office, and with Herod, too, to find 

What fault he could, — thus Pilate's will was felled. 

"His blood on us shall be !" cried out the Jews ; 

And Pilate hearkened to their shrill demands, 
Yet knew their clamor still he might refuse, 

And that the life of Christ was in his hands. 

Through years of deeply conscience-stricken thought 

Did Pilate bear his memory of sin; 
But never gained the solace that he sought, 

For troubled visions flamed his breast within. 

126 



And Pilate Washed His Hands 127 

Upon the distant mountain-height that bears 
His name, Pilatus, did the wretched man 

At length make end of all his sins and cares, 
In death still carrying his curse and ban. 

Ah ! not enough it is for those in power, 

When dealing with infuriated bands. 
That they evade the issues of the hour, 

And put aside the truth, and "wash their hands !" 



TO THE STATUE OF LIBERTY 
IN NEW YORK HARBOR. 

CRASHING of thunder-bolts hurled from on high, 
Roar of explosives sent out from below, 
Lightnings out-flashing, across sea and sky, 

Strong buildings shaken, or felled by the blow, — 
Calmly aloft, by no tumult enswirled, 
Liberty's torch still enlightens the world. 

By no tempestuous whirlwinds of thought, 
Plottings or schemings, without or within. 

Shall our great Country to sorrow be brought. 
While we give light to the world we would win. 

Wide is our banner of freedom unfurled. 

Liberty still shall enlighten the world! 



128 



THE ISLE OF DAY. 

A TINY island in the Sea of Time, 
Each day is Hke a world, set far apart, 
Where one may hear of other hours the chime, 
But where Life's chance is new, for'ev'ry heart. 



129 



A SPAN. 

ABRIDGE across the stream, 
Some joy, much strife, 
The passing of a dream, — 
And this is Hfe. 



130 



Bx\LLADES, RONDEAUX, ETC. 



131 



BALLADE OF FRIAR TUCK. 

A SOUTHERN wind and cloudy sky, 
The blast of horns across the vale, 
An arrow sent with truest eye, 

That ne'er could falter, swerve, or fail, 
Then Friar Tuck they quickly hail ! 

They bid me give their thanks, and pray 
That they may never land in jail, — 
And "Fax vobiscum !" then I say. 

Should Robin Hood by chance descry 

A traveler, with escort frail, 
But good fat purse he could untie 

With little trouble to entail, 
Although his fate he might bewail. 

Forsooth, none can bold Robin stay. 
The man departs, with visage pale, — 

And "Pax vobiscum !" then I say. 



133 



1 34 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

In truth, such deeds to justify, 

The poor are helped, — the wealthy quail, — 
For Robin never would deny 

The balance, in the common scale; 
As Little John and Allan Dale 

Will gladly swear, in accents gay. 
They follow fleetly in his trail, 

And "Pax vobiscum !" then I say. 

Envoy. 

Ah! who at life and fate would rail? 

Fat comfort drives dull care away, — 
A venison steak and nut-brown ale ! 

And "Pax vobiscum!" then I say. 



VERNAL MAGIC. 
(Ballade.) 

GONE is the winter's blast, — 
Soft rains the earth bedew; 
The buds are swelling fast, 

And bringing into view 
The leafy avenue, 

Where birds are on the wing, 
And swift their course pursue. 
Brushed with a gleam of spring. 

No longer overcast 

The sky, with clouds that threw 
Their shadows deep and vast; 

For strong the sun-rays drew, 
With hidden purpose true, 

Fresh life and light to bring 
The waiting earth — and you, 

Brushed with a gleam of spring. 



135 



136 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

All gloomy days are past, — 

Away they swiftly flew. 
Joy, joy has come at last, — 

For like a bugle l)lew 
The tones that louder grew, 

To make the whole world sing. 
And mirth all hearts imbue, 

Brushed with a gleam of spring. 

Envoy. 

Magician, lead thy crew, — 

The world is following, 
With hope and courage new. 

Brushed with a gleam of spring. 



BIBLIOFACTURE. 
(Ballade.) 

WHEN first upon the printed page 
Man learned his phrases to indite, 
Indeed, it was a wondrous age; 

And this invention with delight 
Was hailed by all, save those whose spite 

Feared failure for the books they penned. 
These now are cherished in our sight, — 
Of making books there is no end. 

When Chaucer could his world engage, 

That world of pageantry and might. 
His newest poems were the rage 

With courtiers, matrons, maidens slight; 
Or Froissart's Chronicles of fight, — 

How "Edward made the French King bend." 
Time o'er these tales has thrown a blight. 

Of making books there is no end. 



137 



138 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

And now, at last, upon life's stage, 

There comes a flood's o'erwhelming plight. 
Each writer thinks himself a sage, 

And books are piled to mountain height. 
Where are the last year's stories bright? 

A thousand books show later trend. 
A name will hardly last o'er night, — 

Of making books there is no end. 

Envoy. 

Thrice happy those, contented quite 
With Fame's or Fortune's dividend. 

Who just for joy of writing, write! 
Of making books there is no end. 



BALLADE OF ADVENTURE. 

THOUGH moralists ably may preach 
Of the dangers of life to beware, 
Though pedagogues truly may teach 

That the world has full many a snare, 
Yet lightly as billows of air, 

Though sometimes these breezes are shrill. 
Do young spirits for all things prepare. 
For Youth is adventurous still. 

Years ago, in old Athens, the speech 

Of wise Socrates, critics declare, 
Should have molded opinions of each 

Of the persons surrounding his chair. 
But in wisdom, he did not forbear 

To reckon life's glory and thrill ; 
And to-day in this thought we all share, 

For Youth is adventurous still. 



139 



140 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

When Argosies moored on the beach, 

When Columbus had courage to spare, 
When Hawkins and Drake were in reach 

Of the Spanish, with never a scare 
Their courses they followed ; and where 

Luck failed them, they trusted to skill. 
Their valorous torches yet flare ; 

For Youth is adventurous still. 



Envoy. 

O World, filled with doubting and care, 
Young hearts will forever fulfill 

Their mission, to do and to dare. 
For Youth is adventurous still. 



THE MUSIC OF AMERICA. 
(Ballade.) 

FROM ev'ry fertile hill and plain, 
'Neath ev'ry sky, or dark, or blue, 
Where sweep the miles of golden grain, 
Or fields and farms of verdant hue, — 
With whippoorwill, or cockatoo. 

With lark, or gulls upon the sand, 
Ring melodies both clear and true. 
In waves of music o'er the land. 

The sounding breakers lash the main. 

Fed by vast rivers not a few 
Great waterfalls will roar again, — 

And through the ages these will do 
As they have done the ages through. 

With majesty on ev'ry hand, 
Sound wondrous strains, 'mid mist and dew, 

In waves of music o'er the land. 



141 



142 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

The mountain-dwellers oft are fain 

To sing the songs of rack and rue; 
Though sometimes still a glad refrain 

Will pierce the clouds of life askew, 
And give the glories that accrue 

To happy, cotton-working band. 
Where Southern melodies first flew 

In waves of music o'er the land. 



Envoy. 

America, a world-wide cue 

Thou givest, — for at thy command. 
All nations join, with hope anew, 

In waves of music o'er the land. 



BALLADE OF COURAGE. 

FIERCE Gessler gave command: 
"Now show your skill!" said he; 
And with malicious hand 

He placed, for all to see, 
An apple, from a tree 

Near by, as target fell. 
On th'head so young and free, 
The son of William Tell. 

But Tell, with gesture grand, 

Threw down his bow. "For me, 
Whate'er my reprimand, 

This action shall not be. 
Not e'en for liberty. 

Shall you this deed compel, 
'Gainst him such villainy. 

The son of William Tell!" 



143 



144 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

But quickly then his stand 

The boy took fearlessly. 
"Your arrow safe will land, — 

Fear not the treachery 
Of this, your enemy. 

Take aim. All will be well." 
Right gayly rang his plea, 

The son of William Tell. 

Envoy. 

Which of these people three 

In courage did excel? 
Methinks, in verity, 

The son of William Tell! 



THE DAYS GO BY. 
(Rondeau.) 

THE days go by, like drifting rain, 
And carry with them, in their train, 
Both joy and sorrow, pride and woe, 
The love of friend, the hate of foe, 
A world of happiness and pain. 

And to each one of us made plain. 
Beyond all thought of loss or gain, 
Is certainty, or fast or slow, 
The days go by. 

Though kingdoms may be torn in twain. 
Or fall beneath ambition vain. 

The sun still shines, the breezes blow. 
O'er summer flowers, or winter snow. 
The sway of Time shall e'er remain! 
The days go by. 



10 



145 



THE CALL OF THE PIXIES. 
(Rondeau.) 

DIDST ever try, just for a day, 
To thrust all cares of life away, 
And follow not one single rule 
That makes of life this daily school ,- 
But like a child, just frankly play? 

The magic of the woods, in May ! 
Along a running stream to stray, 
Or dream beside a mountain pool ! 
Didst ever try? 

Perchance 'neath music's happy sway, 
Or clever drama, bright and gay ! 
Though heroes win, or play the fool, 
And though the world may ridicule, 
Care not at all what they may say ! 
Didst ever try? 



146 



THE DECISION. 
(Rondeau.) 

OR yes, or no, — which shall I say? 
The skies are bright and clear to-day, 
But by to-morrow, they may be 
Obscured by clouds; for none can see 
The future, dangers to allay. 

Perhaps an easy path, and gay 
And happy, for my footsteps, may 
Be mine, in this decision free, — 
Or yes, or no. 

And yet, — perhaps wild storms will play 
Around me, and my life will sway 

And fall, as would a broken tree. 

Ah, well ! I follow Fate's decree, — 
Love must decide, — the only way, — 
Or yes, or no. 



147 



IN MANY KEYS. 
(Rondeau.) 

IN many keys, the chords of life 
Are struck, the notes of war and strife, 
A song of love, a lullaby, 
A hymn of praise, a moan, a cry, — 
With human sounds the world is rife. 

The tones ring out, of drum and fife, 
That touch the heart of maid or wife 
With fear, — yet joy, which they imply, 
In many keys. 

The sharp winds blow, a cutting knife 
Across the sails of scudding skiff. 

Or through the poor man's scant supply. 

And yet, our souls we fortify, 
And ask, here and hereafter, life! 
In many keys. 



148 



ALONG THE PATH. 
(Rondeau.) 

ALONG the path where many feet 
Have traveled far, adown the street. 
Beneath the overarching sky, 
There comes the turn of Destiny, 
The road where past and present meet. 

And none can tell, (for Time is fleet,) 
How soon may come success complete; 
Or dire misfortune may be nigh, 
Along the path. 

Oh, youth and hope and joy are sweet. 

And gladly do their spirits greet 

The coming years ; with ne'er a sigh. 
With merry thoughts, and courage high. 

Yet none may hope the Fates to cheat, 
Along the path. 



149 



LIFE'S CHANCES. 
(Rondeau.) 

THE years go on. We mark their flight 
Across the shadows of the night. 
They carry with them joy and pain, 
The hnks of Time's unending chain 
That binds the world, in its despite. 

And some are years of deep dehght, 
While some but bring a sorry plight ; 
Yet none of them are all in vain. 
The years go on. 

Our own they are, — to use or slight, — 
Which none can take, by force or might. 
And if we can not quite attain 
Our dearest hopes, of heart or brain. 
We have each day our chance in sight. 
The years go on ! 



ISO 



IN FEUDAL TIMES. 
(Rondeau.) 

IN feudal times, to make and give 
A silken scarf each maid would strive; 
And so to send her warrior forth, 
To east or west, or south or north, 
That love, though far away, might thrive. 

With patient art would she contrive, 
In ways not too demonstrative. 
To show her own affection's worth. 
In feudal times. 

Not always did his love survive. 

Perchance he wore another gyve 
On his return. Ah, well ! this earth 
Could yet be made a place of mirth, 

And life was still worth while to live. 
In feudal times. 



151 



THE MORNING SKY. 
(Rondeau.) 

THE morning sky, of vivid rose, 
With bands of blue that half disclose 
The stars, so lately shining there, 
Now fading in the matin air, 
The way of life and beauty shows. 

The early glory quickly goes. 
It vanishes before one knows 
Or realizes just how fair 

The morning sky. 

For as the brighter sunlight grows, 
Life's greater splendors to expose. 

It brings not only joy, but care. 

Yet burdens easy are to bear. 
If always, in one's spirit, glows 
The morning sky. 



152 



THE MAYFLOWER. 
(Rondeau.) 

THE mayflower brings its beauty fair 
To scatter fragrance on the air, 
And with its dainty, springtime glow, 
The summer's promises to show, 
With wealth of bloom, and blossoms rare. 

Ah! justly named, beyond compare, 
That ship that sailed, to do and dare ! 
New hope, alike to friend and foe. 
The Mayflower brings. 

Full many trials, grief and care 
That goodly shipload had to bear. 
No wonder that our hearts overflow 
With gratitude, for all we owe ; 
To each of us, a special share 

The Mayflower brings. 



153 



A SMILE. 
(Rondeau.) 

A SMILE is like a ray of sun 
That warms the heart of ev'ry one; 
Or like the parting of a cloud 
That throws a gleam across a crowd, 
From hidden glories half begun. 

And though we may not rue or run, 
Or fear the shadows dark and dun. 
We know what, on a spirit proud, 
A smile is like. 

On saint or sinner, monk or nun. 

Where'er the web of life is spun, 
Or free, or grudgingly allowed, 
On youthful lips, or wrinkle-plowed, 

We seek for what, in work or fun, 
A smile is like. 



154 



THE SIBYL. 
(Rondeau.) 

WITH brooding eyes, her scroll in hand, 
The pagan prophetess, o'er land 
And sea, sent forth her word of doom, 
For good or ill, for joy or gloom. 
And none her mandate could withstand. 

What was the force at her command, 
Which scattered ships upon the strand, 
Or caused the flower, success, to bloom, 
With brooding eyes? 

Would that we had a modern brand 
Of Sibyl, still with manner grand. 
To read portentous signs that loom. 
And tell how peace can e'er find room, 
And hearts grow light, and thoughts expand, 
With brooding eyes ! 



155 



AMID THE REEDS. 
(Rondeau.) 

AMID the reeds, the great god Pan 
Sat piping for each maid and man 
Who chanced to pass along that way; 
And with his flute he bade them stay, 
And listen to his merry plan. 

With eager joy the tune began, — 
It told of life, and its brief span, 
And bade all sing a merry lay, 
Amid the reeds. 

And sometimes, as magicians can, 
He gathered round him quite a clan, 
All ready for his joyous play, 
And for his melodies so gay, — 
When lo ! A flash ! Away he ran, 
Amid the reeds ! 



156 



APPLES. 
(Rondeau.) 

AN apple brought, in Eden's prime, 
All human ills, — disease and crime. 
And sorrow, which such things entail. 
But life is short, and flesh is frail. 
And apples tempt, in ev'ry clime. 

When Paris, on the mount sublime, 
Chose Venus, (in that Goddess mime,) 
The fall of Troy, 'mid shadows pale. 
An apple brought. 

Th'Hesperides' gold apples' chime 
Caused many journeys maritime, — 

Made fleet- foot Atalanta fail. 

Ah, fateful deeds, along its trail. 
Told through the years, in prose and rhyme, 
An apple brought! 



157 



THE BELLS OF TIME. 
(Rondeau.) 

THE bells of Time sound not in vain, 
When in their echoes, clear and plain, 
Ring memories the years have brought, 
With friendship, love, and duty fraught, 
And joy, that follows in their train. 

We listen to each passing strain, 
Not as the chance for sordid gain. 
But as a song, divinely taught 
The bells of Time. 

Let future years sweep on amain, 
And bear us swiftly in their chain; 
If but the force of kindly thought 
And friendy deeds in hope are wrought, 
We still may hear Life's sweet refrain, — 
The bells of Time! 



158 



ENMESHED. 
(Rondeau ) 

WITHIN Life's net, like Circe's Isle, 
Are stirring forces that beguile 
And cheat us daily, as we go, 
In all the flush of youthful glow, 
Or passing years, each added mile. 

Escape? Perhaps a little while 
The Siren may withdraw her smile; 
But only deeper spells to throw 
Within Life's net. 

And though her tricks we may revile, 
Or seek fresh knowledge to compile, 
We never can her sentence know, 
But still must live the daily show. 
We ne'er her ways can reconcile, 
Within Life's net. 



159 



AS SHINES THE SUN. 
(Rondeau.) 

AS shines the sun o'er lands afar, 
Where lightly waving palm trees are, 
And blossoms of a gorgeous hue 
Bedeck the scene, and charm the view, 
So life allures, with naught to mar. 

Soft wavelets wash the sandy bar, 
Where dancing skiffs, with sail and spar. 
Go gayly by, a merry crew. 
As shines the sun. 

From ukelele, or guitar, 

Sweet music sounds, with ne'er a jar, 
And there, 'mid inspirations new. 
Fresh life and joy are waiting, too. 

Each glowing mind a brilliant star, 
As shines the sun. 



1 60 



WINTER MUSIC. 
(Rondeau.) 

O'ER fields of snow, the rushing wind 
Sings in the blast of blizzard blind, 
While pulsing tree-tops madly shake, 
And white-stringed bushes wildly quake, 
The diapason full to find. 

Each brook and stream, though icy lined, 
Sounds forth, above, below, behind. 
Soft tinkling music still to make. 
O'er fields of snow. 

None should the winter call unkind, 
When glorious, swirling snow-storms bind 
The world, for deep-drawn music's sake. 
In harmonies that tensely wake 
The deepest depths of human mind, 
O'er fields of snow. 



" i6i 



INSPIRATION. 
(Rondeau.) 

THE inner life, so fair to greet ! 
Where one may walk with eager feet, 
Escaping from all fret and care. 
And all annoyances, that wear 
Upon the soul, its hope to cheat. 

Ah ! there one finds a safe retreat ; 
With loved companions sure to meet, 
Who all one's dearest thoughts may share, 
The inner life. 

And then, to make it quite complete. 
You always come, on pinions fleet, 
A shining form, with waving hair, 
And smile and glance beyond compare. 
No wonder that to me is sweet 
The inner life. 



162 



OCTOBER LEAVES. 
(Rondeau.) 

OCTOBER leaves, of yellow, brown, 
Or brilliant red, are Autumn's crown. 
The jewels of the passing year, 
That shine in sun-rays bright and clear, 
Bedecking field, and wood, and town. 

Gay smiling thoughts, with ne'er a frown, 
Shall follow, when they flutter down; 
For memories of joy and cheer 
October leaves. 

We claim its glory for our own. 

Its future promises foreshown; 

The coming days with hope appear, 
To give us all we hold most dear, — 

And so, we place in high renown 
October leaves. 



163 



HOW GOES THE TIME? 
(Rondeau.) 

HOW goes the time? We can not say 
How many moments ev'ry day 
We spend in pleasant thoughts or dreams. 
And if to us the daylight seems 
But short, we ne'er its course can stay. 

Right gladly do we work and play, 
And pass the happy hours away ; 
Then swiftly come the sunset beams. 
How goes the time ! 

Ah! possibly each sunny ray 
Is not quite lost, though it may stray 
Afar, — for sometimes it redeems 
A thought, that works out larger schemes. 
Then shall the outcome well repay. 
How goes the time? 



164 



ACROSS THE MARNE. 
(Rondeau.) 

ACROSS the Marne they shall not pass, 
That seething, surging, murd'rous mass. 
Gone out upon their frantic fray, — 
In truth, the Devil's holiday, 
Where Right is crushed, like shattered glass. 

Blood-strewn, and scattered o'er the grass, 
Torn limbs, and helmet, sword, cuirass, 
With gun, or pike, to bar the way 
Across the Marne. 

The sound goes forth from blaring brass. 

That rings recall ; but not, alas ! 

Before the blood-soaked, sodden clay 
Becomes an altar. There shall pray 

All nations' heroes, — ev'ry class, — 
Across the Marne. 



165 



FROM THE TRENCHES. 
(Rondeau.) 

IN peace or war, my darling's face, 
So full of sweetness, strength, and grace, 
Shall be my inspiration, guide, 
And comfort, whether by her side, 
Or far away, in distant place. 

No counsel vacillating, base, 
Or timid, would she give, in case 
Of Duty's call, whate'er betide, — 
In peace or war. 

Her smile all doubts away can chase; 

For love can fly through realms of space, 
And fill with thoughts of joy and pride 
True hearts, that naught can e'er divide. 

Her dreams would paths of glory trace 
In peace or war. 



1 66 



THE LEADER. 
(Rondeau.) 

A LEADER brave, both strong and true, 
You cheerfully your way pursue. 
With manner bland, and welcome free, 
To all, of whatsoe'er degree. 
That come within your favored view. 

You ask no odds, yet still anew, 
Your smiling eyes claim as their due 
Affection, trust, and sympathy, — 
A leader brave! 

And if we ask what is the clew 

To this regard, shown only few. 
The answer, plain for all to see. 
Is that we know the world can be 

In peace, or war, quite sure of you, 
A leader brave ! 



167 



THE BRIDGE OF DREAMS. 
(Rondeau.) 

THE bridge to cross a flowing stream 
We oft but scantily esteem, 
And pass it lightly, day by day. 
As in our work, or in our play, 
We follow each his own heart's scheme. 

And yet, in shining sunlight's gleam, 
It forms of thought a magic theme. 
O'er time and space my love may stray, 
The bridge to cross. 

Thus oft she comes, my joy supreme, 
With hope that she may soon redeem 

In person, what her sweet lips say. 

Far down the pleasant winding way, 
By day in thought, by night in dream. 
The bridge to cross. 



1 68 



SAINT VALENTINE. 
(Rondeau.) 

SAINT VALENTINE, upon his day, 
Tells all the world at love to play, 
Forgetting life is not a dream. 
Where things are always what they seem, 
And ev'ry thought is bright and gay. 

We fain would let him have his say, 
And dream our happy life away, 
For no one ever should blaspheme 
Saint Valentine. 

Yet now and then, with blank dismay. 

We realize how hopes betray, 

And lead us on, to bliss supreme, 
To happy heights of joy extreme. 

Ah! does she love me? yea or nay, 
Saint Valentine? 



169 



PEGASUS. 
(Rondel.) 

V 

O WINGED courser of the skies, 
So hard to catch and curb at will, 
Beyond the utmost power and skill 
Of him who on himself relies ! 

Yet art thou kind to him who cries 
With humble voice, o'er rock and rill, 

O winged courser of the skies, 

So hard to catch and curb at will. 

But he upon thy wings who flies, 
Though merely o'er a trifling hill. 
Can feel fore'er thy throb and thrill 

Which ev'ry joy in life outvies. 

O winged courser of the skies, 

So hard to catch and curb at will ! 



170 



PERSEUS TO ANDROMEDA. 
(Rondel.) 

SET free at last, beloved one, 
From monster's fangs, and rock and chain, 
From lashing waves, and beating rain, 
From darkened night, and burning sun ! 

Again for you has life begun; 

You live no more in dread and pain. 
Set free at last, beloved one. 

From monster's fangs, and rock and chain! 

Ah ! while the hours of life shall run. 
My true devotion shall remain, 
To guard and shield; for not in vain 

Kind Fate for us her web has spun. 

Set free at last, beloved one ! 



171 



LAUDAMUS. 
(Roundel.) 

GIVE thanks and praise for health and food, 
For books, for music, — peaceful days, 
That keep our hearts in happy mood, 
Give thanks and praise. 

Through passing storms, or sunny rays, 
Through field and fallow, flow and flood, 
Our steps are led in pleasant ways. 

To be by friendship understood, 
To know a love that naught dismays, 
This is the sum of all things good. 
Give thanks and praise ! 



172 



THE VEXED QUESTION. 
(Sonnet.) 

WHAT is to be will be !" So runs the creed 
Of many, who would doubt that any one 
Could change whatever had been ordered done 
By that great Power above each word and deed. 
For though we follow, each and all, the lead 
Of our own knowledge, yet in truth, by none 
May all the favor of the Fates be won, 
And in this world of chance, but few succeed. 

And still, each time the question comes to us, 
Shall this or that be done? we justly feel 

We have the choice within us, what to say. 

We know our wills are free, whatever thus 
The everlasting puzzle may conceal. 

Free will or Fate ? Which holds us most in sway ? 



173 



PROMISES FULFILLED. 
(Sonnet.) 

A BREATH of laughter o'er the waiting land ! 
For Spring has come, in all her glory bright, 
And chased afar the shadows of the night, 
And all the terrors of the icy band 
That held the earth in thrall, like some dark hand 
Across the splendor of the glowing light, 
Which brings the happiness of day to sight, 
With work, and play, and joy, at its command. 

Again the resurrection of the world, 
A symbol of the promise to mankind, 

Makes ev'ry heart and mind and soul rejoice; 

While breezes, over hills and valleys hurled. 
Go forth, to chase the flying clouds, and find 

The ringing, mighty hope, in Nature's voice! 



174 



THE RACE. 
(Triolets.) 

** ¥ LIKE a race," said Mistress Nan, 

1 As high her pretty head she tossed. 
"Will no one for my pleasure plan? 
I like a race," said Mistress Nan. 
Forthwith we mustered, man to man, — 

We would not have her wishes crossed. 
"I like a race," said Mistress Nan, 

As high her pretty head she tossed. 

We did not rue that race we ran, 
Or care if it was won or lost. 

E'en from the first, when it began, 

We did not rue that race we ran; 

For just the smile of Mistress Nan 
Was worth the trouble that it cost. 

We did not rue that race we ran, 
Or care if it was won or lost. 



175 



176 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

Ah ! by and by a race we ran. 

How terrible, if I had lost! 
The prize? The heart of Mistress Nan. 
Ah ! by and by a race we ran 
Which meant for me a lifelong span 

Of joy, that nothing could exhaust. 
Ah ! by and by a race we ran. 

How terrible, if I had lost! 



JUST SUPPOSE. 
(Triolets.) 

JUST suppose that you and I 
On a sea-girt isle were thrown, 
Over us a soft blue sky, — 
Just suppose that you and I, 
Glad of our escape, should try 

Building huts of shells and stone. 
Just suppose that you and I 
On a sea-girt isle were thrown. 

Just suppose that soon drew nigh 
Boats, across the shallows blown, 

That our island could descry. 

Just suppose that soon drew nigh 

Chance of transport, safe and dry, 
To the homes that we had known. 

Just suppose that soon drew nigh 
Boats, across the shallows blown. 



12 



177 



178 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

Just suppose we should comply ; 

Would our dreamings all have flown? 
Ah ! on some we could rely ! 
Just suppose we should comply; 
Would you leave, without a sigh, 

Skies and sunsets all our own? 
Just suppose we should comply; 

Would our dreamings all have flown? 



THE LILT OF THE PARADISE BIRD. 
(Villanelle.) 

FAR away, in the distance, we heard. 
Sounding clearly, through mists of the wood. 
The lilt of the paradise bird. 

Strong feelings within us were stirred. 

That which dimly our hearts understood 
Far away, in the distance, we heard. 

Life's happiness plainly inferred, 

A promise that surely made good 
The lilt of the paradise bird. 

Forever its singing averred 

We must master our fate, as we should. 
Far away, in the distance, we heard. 

We should ne'er let our thoughts be deterred 

From belief in the world's brotherhood, 
The lilt of the paradise bird. 

Though our footsteps may sometimes have erred, 

We would join in that song, if we could. 
Far away, in the distance, we heard 
The lilt of the paradise bird. 

179 



DANTE. 
(Villanelle.) 

SIX hundred years ago and more, 
Great Dante lived, and loved, and penned 
Those words that still we ponder o'er. 

His poems make the world adore 

The woman he would fain commend, 
Six hundred years ago and more. 

They met, — upon that Farther Shore. 

Could widest vision e'er transcend 
Those words that still we ponder o'er? 

On earth, wise rule he would restore. 

His thoughts they did not comprehend, 
Six hundred years ago and more. 

His exile sadly we deplore; 

Yet sorrow did but shape and blend 
Those words that still we ponder o'er. 

Earth's happiness his heart forswore ; 

With heavenly light that he might send. 
Six hundred years ago and more. 
Those words that still we ponder o'er ! 

1 80 



DRAKE, AND THE RANSOM OF SAN 
DOMINGO— 1585. 

(Sestina.) 

*'QRING forth your treasures !" quoth the sailor bold. 
JD "For England needs them all, and in her cause 
I stand to-day. No Spaniard shall escape 
From paying tribute, which is fairly due 
To English prowess, on the swelling sea, 
As on the lands that know her mighty force. 

"But though determined to resort to force 
If needful, yet I am not over bold. 
No wild and harsh freebooter of the sea 
Am I, — and if you recognize the cause 
Is just, and give us what indeed is due 
To conquerors, I swear you shall escape." 

The magistrates considered this escape. 
Well knowing all the violence and force 
Which could be brought to bear, as justly due 
To any one who dared to be so bold 
As e'en to question by what right or cause 
Came this demand, from rovers of the sea. 



181 



1 82 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

They waited, hoping that across the sea 

Might come from Spain some chance of their escape, 

Some partial help, to aid them in their cause. 

But nothing came ; and in despair, the force 

Of vengeance was the only thought these bold 

And hardy Spaniards felt their right and due. 

And so they took the messenger then due, 
Sent under flag of truce, which from the sea 
Demanded toll, and struck and killed the bold 
And daring lad, who could not then escape. 
Ah, bitterly they rued this act of force! 
And sadly did it work againt their cause ! 

For Drake slew many Spaniards for this cause. 
And felt that fearful ransom was his due. 
When finally they yielded to his force 
And paid a mighty sum, which o'er the sea 
Was carried to Queen Bess. Yet their escape 
From further ills they owed to Drake, the bold. 

The world still calls him bold, commends his cause, 
Lets him escape all blame. Such was the due 
Of rovers of the sea, who ruled, by force ! 



WHEN APOLLO PASSES. 
(Pantoum.) 

A BRIGHTER glow across the land, 
A sweeter scent upon the breeze, 
A thrill we can not understand, 

A quiver through the listening trees ! 

A sweeter scent upon the breeze 
Than any we had known before; 

A quiver through the listening trees, 
And all across the sandy shore! 

Than any we had known before 
Far sweeter, in its deep delight; 

And all across the sandy shore 

The sunshine dazzles, with its might. 

Far sweeter, in its deep delight, 
To charm, and win, and glorify, 

The sunshine dazzles, with its might! 
We know Apollo passes by. 

To charm, and win, and glorify. 

To make the watching world admire. 

We know Apollo passes by, — 
We hear the ringing of his lyre. 

183 



184 The Cry of Vashti and Other Verses 

To make the watching world admire, 
He only has to cast his spell. 

We hear the ringing of his lyre. 
We feel at heart that all is well. 

He only has to cast his spell, 

To banish care and hate and fear. 

We feel at heart that all is well ; 
True happiness is ever near. 

To banish care and hate and fear 

Apollo's music fitly rings. 
True happiness is ever near, 

And in our waiting hearts it sings. 

Apollo's music fitly rings; 

A newer lease of life it gives, 
And in our waiting hearts it sings 

A pulsing song that throbs and lives. 

A newer lease of life it gives, 
A thrill we can not understand, 

A pulsing song that throbs and lives, 
A brighter glow across the land ! 



Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. 
Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide 
Treatment Date: Sept. 2009 

PreservatlonTechnologies 

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Cranl^erry Township, PA 1 6066 
(724)779-2111 






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